Sunday, July 1                                                                                         Read Joshua 1:1-9

Promises for Today

BIBLE THOUGHT: "As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you" (Joshua 1:5, NRSV).

     GOD TURNS to Joshua as the next leader of His people. There are big things ahead, and God gives the prime directive: "Now proceed to cross the Jordan . . . . Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you, as I promised to Moses."

     There are some conditions for success. God promises the land if they will but go into it, be strong, not turn aside, be courageous. Eight times before He has finished speaking, God tells Joshua to be strong, to be courageous. Then He says, "Do not be frightened or dismayed."

     What would make Joshua move ahead as God directed, full of courage and strength? God's unconditional promise to go with them. On the near side of the Jordan, He is there. He will cross the river with them. He is waiting for them on the far side. He is everywhere around them . . . "For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

     Do you plan on crossing a Jordan today? Are you trying to find the courage to do it? Would it help to know that Someone will be with you?

Sing: "Be with Me, Lord"

Dear Lord, we remember that You are the father of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. We know You as the One who has moved Your people in mighty ways, and we see that You have always gone with them. Thank You for being with us today. In Jesus' name. Amen.

--STEVEN S. LEMLEY, Co-Editor