Joshua 1:9-"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Have you ever been afraid, terrified or discouraged? Have you ever felt weak and in dispair? Can you imagine having to become the leader of the Israelites after Moses had died? In the first chapter of Joshua, Joshua was given this responsibility. God called him to lead the children of Israel into the promise land.  What a daunting task.

I know in my life God has given me responsibilities in leadership that caused me to take a step back and deal with my insecurities and fears. I remember the time God called me to pastor my first church in Arizona. I had always wanted to be a lead pastor but when the time came to step into the role I began to have doubts and fears. Could I do it? Could I shepherd a group of people and guide them into their purpose for God? Could I handle all the responsibilities? The answer was "No." I couldn't do it alone, but just like Joshua God impressed on my heart that He would always be with me and help me at every step along the way. 

You may be at a place in your life where God is asking you to step into a different role or leadership responsibility. This could be a promotion at work, a different job offer, starting a family or taking on a position at your church. You know this is God's plan for your life but you still feel anxious and hesitant in making the decision. You may even be terrified because of all the "what ifs" that are going through your mind. What if it's not the Lord? What if I fail? What if it is the wrong decision? What if...?

God is able to handle all your what ifs. He is gracious and kind to us when we have a decision to make that will accomplish His purpose and destiny for us. He wants you to grow and develop into the person who trusts in him and will obey his word. He will never leave you. He will always be with you every step of the way. He will do for you what he did for Joshua. He is faithful.

I had a pastor friend of mine that when I was getting ready to walk into God's purpose and direction for my life and was scared would say, "Just do it scared." Sometimes when we know God is leading us into a new adventure, he will give us the courage to take that step even if we are terrified. When we do take that step we will experience God's presence in a new and refreshing way. Following the Lord can be a challenge. But remember, "the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Prayer-Dear Lord Jesus, I thank you that you promised to always be with me no matter where I go. Help me to trust in you to accomplish your plan and purpose for my life. You are always leading me to experience more of you. Give me the courage to obey your word even if I am scared. In your name I pray. Amen!