So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them.
Joshua 3:14 (NIV)
Father, this is a challenging season for a lot of us. Some are crossing into new careers. Some are crossing into new jobs at work. Some are crossing into new education and growth opportunities. Some are crossing into new relationships. Yet, for all of us, when we set out to cross, the “river” before us appears in flood stage, uncrossable, and the challenge that we believe in our heart that You have placed before us – conquer what lies ahead – appears beyond our reach.
Yet, I am reminded this morning that You have sent word to Your servants that on the other side is abundance and blessing. On the other side is Your peace and presence. On the side is our calling. You have raised up in our lives witnesses who have “spied out the land” and seen what lies ahead. They have returned with words of encouragement, reminding us of Who You are and what You have placed before us. I must remember, we must remember, that we can do all things through You (Philippians 4:13).
So today, with intent and purpose I “break camp” and cease from waiting for a “sign.” I stop asking You the question “when” and instead proclaim, “Lead me and I will follow.” Even as the Children of Israel followed the ark of the covenant, which represented Your presence, I follow You, earnestly seeking Your guidance. I put my fears behind me. I leave my excuses at door. In boldness my heart exclaims, “Surely, the LORD is going before me!” All the excuses, and the rationale, all the reasoning that my flesh comes up with as to why I should not move forward my heart and spirit rebukes today, exclaiming “Where You lead I will follow!”
So Father, open my eyes that I might see Your finger ushering me to come. Open my ears that I might hear You whisper the order, “Now.” Continue to remove the doubts and questions, and continue to surround me by others who boldly go where You send them. And together use our lives to bring You glory in Jesus’ Name. Amen.