Meditate on God's Word
Take a few quiet moments to reflect on today's message. Allow the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart as you read.
Reading time
3 min read
Introduction
One of the greatest blessings a believer can ever experience is the presence of the Lord. Wealth may disappear, friends may disappoint, and strength may fail, but when God's presence is with a person, there is hope, victory, peace and direction.
Joshua was about to take over from Moses, one of the greatest leaders Israel had ever known. The responsibility before him was enormous. God did not promise Joshua an easy journey, but He gave him something far greater: His presence.
Today, God still assures His children that His presence is enough to carry them through every season of life.
1. The Presence of the Lord Gives Courage
God began by saying, "Be strong and courageous."
Joshua had every reason to be afraid. He was leading a nation into battles against powerful enemies. Yet God reminded him that courage does not come from self-confidence but from God's presence.
Fear loses its power when we know God is with us.
Isaiah 41:10 says:
"Fear not, for I am with you."
A believer who walks in God's presence can face tomorrow without fear.
2. The Presence of the Lord Brings Victory
Israel did not conquer Canaan because they had the strongest army. They prevailed because God went before them.
Many battles in life cannot be won by intelligence, money or human influence alone. Some victories come only because the Lord is present.
When God is with you:
Mountains become plains.
Closed doors begin to open.
Impossible situations become testimonies.
Victory belongs to those who carry God's presence.
3. The Presence of the Lord Gives Direction
God never leaves His children to wander in confusion.
Throughout Israel's journey, the Lord guided them by the pillar of cloud during the day and the pillar of fire at night.
Today, God guides us through His Holy Spirit and His Word.
Many people make costly mistakes because they move without seeking God's presence. Before making important decisions, seek the One who knows the end from the beginning.
4. The Presence of the Lord Produces Peace
Life is full of storms, but God's presence calms troubled hearts.
The disciples panicked during the storm, yet Jesus was in the boat. His presence was greater than the waves.
Peace is not the absence of problems. Peace is the confidence that God is with you in the middle of them.
5. The Presence of the Lord Requires Obedience
Joshua chapter 1 repeatedly emphasises obedience to God's Word.
God's presence is enjoyed by those who walk with Him.
Sin separates people from the fellowship of God, but obedience keeps us close to Him.
A believer should cultivate God's presence through:
Prayer.
Studying and obeying God's Word.
Worship.
Holiness.
Fellowship with other believers.
6. God's Presence Is Our Greatest Treasure
Moses understood this when he prayed in Exodus 33:15:
"If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here."
Moses knew that success without God's presence is failure in disguise.
As believers, our greatest desire should not simply be blessings, miracles or promotion. Our greatest desire should be to know God and walk daily in His presence.
Conclusion
Joshua succeeded because God was with him.
The same promise belongs to every believer today. Challenges will come, but God's presence gives courage, victory, wisdom and peace.
Never go where God's presence does not lead you. Never make decisions without seeking Him. Value His presence above every earthly possession.
When God is with you, you already possess what you need to fulfil His purpose.
