getting sidetracked

When God speaks, we better listen. When God directs, we better walk that direction. When God connects to us, we need to connect with Him. Lets connect!

Listen to what God said to me this morning:

Joshua 1:6-9 NLT

Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Joshua was God's man in that day. He had a direction to walk and to lead people in. Literally, his vision had come from God, and these words are needed by leaders and everyone who follows Jesus. What did God say? Here are some of my takeaways from these verses:

1 - God said, "remember My promises because they give you confidence .... be full of courage."

2 - God said, "there is bigger reason and meaning than you know, so keep on leading ... be full of courage."

3 - God said, "success comes when you don't get sidetracked ... be full of courage."

4 - God said, "know what I have said and taught you. Think about it often ... be full of courage."

5 - God said, "fear and shame aren't part of my plan for you or my people ... be full of courage."

6 - God said, "your strength has to come from me ... be full of courage."

7 - God said, "I'm not leaving you ... be full of courage."

That gives me strength, courage and deep conviction about what God is doing. I am convinced that the vision I have been given is real and really from God. It is my calling to lead others in that direction. The whole time being full of courage and not getting sidetracked!

Note: this devotion was first shared in September of 2008

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Michael Harrison's e-devotion

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