February 28th

February 28th

Read: Heb. 13:5; Psalms 16:11; Psalms. 139:7-10; 46:1; Josh 1:1-18 ; Isa. 41:10

Joshua was facing the great challenge of his life. The LORD instructed him to take over the leadership of Israel after Moses died. There lay the Jordan River to be crossed at the flood. Some of the tribes wanted to stay on the east side of the river for pasture, but Joshua needed the fighting men to clear out the Canaanites. Jericho, the most heavily walled city in Canaan, had to be vanquished before they could move safely into the land. Spiritually the people were backslidden. Passover, circumcision, and feast days had been neglected for over forty years. Talk about stress!

God, however, encouraged Joshua to focus on the book of the law for success and then reminded him to focus on His presence wherever Joshua went. When he did have his focus right, God gave Joshua success. When he failed to focus on God, failure followed at Ai and with the Gibeonites. (Joshua 7:1-5; Joshua 9:1-23)

Focus is difficult in our fast-paced culture, but it is still necessary to our success in the Christian life. Where are you focused?

GOD IS THERE
When storms surround and buffet you,
When dark clouds loom and troubles brew,
Remember God is there.
When sunshine comes to chase the gloom,
When skies are blue and flowers bloom,
Be thankful God is there.

When chaos rules upon the street,
When fear pursues the folks you meet,
Remember God is there.
When gentle folk seek out the grail,
When peaceful hearts with love prevail,
Be thankful God is there.

When winds sweep clean the worthless chaff,
When you stand firm and others laugh,
Remember God is there.
When sure foundation you have found
Because you sought the higher ground,
Be thankful God is there.

Prayer: Dear God, keep me focused on You and Your Word. When my eyes slip away, Lord, please keep my feet from following them.