Devotional: Take the Land

Read Joshua 1:1-9 Why do we seem to have more failures than successes? What are some sociological factors? When we think of these questions we tend to respond by blaming our failures on factors such as racial discrimination, gender discrimination, religious discrimination, lack of opportunities, and favoritism shown to individuals and groups by the wealthy and the powerful. Some people fail to have success because they do not have a positive view of themselves. Abuse, both physical and verbal, may cause a person to see themselves as unworthy. For these people it may seem that there is no hope. While these factors have merit, the words of the Lord to Joshua suggest to us that the most significant factor is whether or not we are strong enough and courageous enough to take possession of the land that God is giving to us. The Israelites are a poor people. They are about to face armies that have superior training and weapons. They will fight against soldiers that have horse drawn chariots and weapons of iron. They are foot soldiers with weapons made of wood. Yet, the Lord promises to give them the land if they are willing to trust Him and face the enemy. When we believe God, He gives us the strength and courage to take possession of the land. Let us not be afraid because of how things appear to us. God has already devised a way for us to take the land that He promises to give to us. Prayer: Lord, we thank you for your promises to us. Grant that we have faith in your word. Grant that we be strong and courageous as we enter into new areas and eras of life. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen