Follow the Leader
In my newsletter today, I would like to ask a question-are we people who follow instructions well, or are we those who thinks they know best and try to navigate on our own? In the book of Joshua (1-3) in the Bible, we will notice that God chose Joshua to lead after Moses’ death. During this time, God was preparing Joshua to lead the Israelites to cross the Jordan River. However, through the process, God had given Joshua specific instructions on how to proceed going forward. Much the same, we can also see that Joshua had an unwavering faith. He was loyal and followed the leading of the Spirit because he knew it was critical and was being used by God. He would not only show the people that he was devoted, but he was also fulfilling God’s promises. In addition, we see that Joshua also trusted even when he couldn’t see the outcome. Likewise, we observe that he didn’t follow his own ways, but was compliant to God’s ways. Even when it did not make sense to him, Joshua remained obedient and allowed the “Spirit to lead.” Joshua was a good and faithful servant! Looking back at the way we make decisions, can we always say that this is true about us? When God calls us to a specific area to do a specific task, are we willing to be obedient like Joshua? Do we say yes to the Spirit when He leads us to do something that may be out of our comfort zone or may make us second guess whether we are equipped enough to complete the task? Would we be like Joshua and listen intently while following every step and not veer off the path at which He is leading? Would we be able to trust in the direction even if we do not know the outcome? All of these questions are sometimes hard to answer because most of the time, we need to see the end result. However, when we put our hope and trust in God then we know we have prepared our hearts to listen to His voice and have confidence in the results. His instructions may very well be leading in a different direction from what we thought should happen, but in reality He always has a perfect plan and perfect timing. We just need to put our faith in Him and wait! So, will you trust Him today and allow the Spirit to lead?
Early the next morning Joshua and all the Israelites left Acacia Grove[a] and arrived at the banks of the Jordan River, where they camped before crossing. Three days later the Israelite officers went through the camp, giving these instructions to the people: “When you see the Levitical priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord your God, move out from your positions and follow them. Since you have never traveled this way before, they will guide you. Stay about half a mile[b] behind them, keeping a clear distance between you and the Ark. Make sure you don’t come any closer. Then Joshua told the people, “Purify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do great wonders among you.”
Joshua 3:1-5
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions
⦁ Do you pray before making decisions and ask God to guide you?
⦁ When you do not see the outcome right away, do you try and control the situation?
⦁ What keeps you from trusting God?
⦁ Will you seek Him out first and ask for direction and be willing to wait until He answers?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested)- Have you ever asked “Spirit Lead Me? “
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABWnLjXer10&ab_channel=musicmeetsheaven