“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; be not frightened, neither be dismayed; for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” –Joshua 1:9
One of the great temptations of life is to think that we can do it all by ourselves. It is true that working with others can be a struggle. We don’t always see eye to eye with one another. Our differences can drive a wedge between us. The frustration from being with others, even those whom we love, can often push us into solitude.
The same is often true for our life of faith. Our faith life should bring us joy and peace, but there are times when we are busy, when life’s demands are almost more than we can handle. In those busy times, we are tempted to leave God off our schedule. We neglect the gift of worship, prayer and reading scripture, which is our connection and communication with God.
We were not created to live life on our own. We are better when we are with others. We are at our best when we are connected to God.
The good news is that we are not alone. God is with us.
When Joshua and the Hebrew people were about to cross into the Promised Land, after years of wondering in the wilderness, fear crept into the camp. Rumors began to spread about the dangers they would face on the other side of the river. The people were terrified. God offered them this promise, “The LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” It was the strength they needed to move into the promised land and begin the task of settling into their new home.
In busy and difficult times, we, like Joshua and the Hebrew people, often turn inward and forget this beautiful promise. As we move into this new year, I want to encourage you to spend time in prayer and reading scripture. Be reminded of God’s presence. Let’s be reminded that we are not alone. God has graciously offered us His presence and given us the gift of a family of faith. When we realize that we are not alone, it will make a difference as we begin the journey of a new year, filled with wonderful possibilities.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
