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What to do with God's promises

What to do with God’s promises
Joshua 1:1-9.

So many times we come across portion of Scripture that though encouraging might seem far from our present reality. This is often the nature of God's promises. They are sure and certain, but they may not be fully visible in our current circumstances. So what do we do with God's promises?

After Moses’ death, Joshua stood before a daunting task. He was to lead Israel into the Promised Land, a land God had spoken about for generations. The promise was certain, but Joshua still had a responsibility. In this passage, God shows him exactly what to do with His promises. The same principles guide us today.

  • See it: Receive God’s promises by faith (v2-3).
God told Joshua, “Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you.” The land was already promised, but Joshua had to see it by faith before he ever possessed it. He needed to believe what God said was true, even before the full fulfillment was visible.

God’s promises are received the same way today. We must first see them with the eyes of faith. Faith takes God at His Word and looks beyond present circumstances to what He has spoken.

  • Say it: Hold fast to God’s Word (v7-8).
God commanded Joshua to be strong and very courageous, and to carefully obey the Law. He was told not to turn from it to the right or to the left. The Book of the Law was to remain in his mouth, and he was to meditate on it day and night.

God’s promises must not only be believed in the heart; they must also be spoken and kept before us. As we speak His Word, meditate on it, and live by it, our hearts stay aligned with His promises and purposes.

  • Step into it: Act on God’s promises with courage (v6, 9).
Three times God told Joshua to be strong and courageous. The promise of the land did not remove the need for action. Joshua still had to lead the people, cross the Jordan, and face the challenges ahead. But he could move forward without fear because God promised, “The Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

God’s promises are meant to be stepped into. When we trust His Word and walk in obedience, we move from merely hearing the promise to living in its reality.

God’s promises are not just to be admired. We are to see them by faith, say them with confidence, and step into them with courage.

Reflect & Pray
Which promise of God do you need to see by faith today? How can you begin to say it and step into it this week?
Faithful God, thank You for Your promises. Help me to see them with faith, speak them with confidence, and step into them with courage, knowing You are always with me. Amen.

God bless you exceedingly,
Sam.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9.
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