Stepping Into God’s Promises
Morning: Joshua 1-3
Evening: Luke 1:57-80
Joshua stood on the brink of something new. Moses was gone, and now it was his turn to lead Israel into the Promised Land. God’s command to Joshua was clear: “Be strong and of a good courage” (Joshua 1:6). The path ahead was uncertain, but God’s promise remained—He would be with Joshua every step of the way.
In Luke 1, we see another significant moment in history. After hundreds of years of silence—no new prophecies, no fresh revelation from God—the time had finally come for His promise to be fulfilled. Yet, in the midst of that silence, there were still those who remained faithful, like Elisabeth and Zechariah. Though they were old and childless, they held on to the hope that God would be true to His covenant. When John the Baptist was born, Zechariah’s silence was lifted, and his first words declared the faithfulness of God (Luke 1:68-79). Just as Israel had to trust God to cross the Jordan, and Elisabeth and Zechariah had to trust in God’s perfect timing, we too are called to step out in faith, knowing that where God leads, He provides.
Key Insights
- God’s Presence Goes Before Us – Just as He assured Joshua, God reminds us today: “I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee” (Joshua 1:5).
- Courage Comes from Trusting God – Joshua was commanded to be strong and courageous, not because of his own strength, but because God was with him (Joshua 1:9).
- Faith Requires Action – The priests had to step into the Jordan before the waters parted (Joshua 3:13). Sometimes, we must act in faith before we see the miracle.
- God Rewards Faithfulness – Despite generations of silence, Elisabeth and Zechariah remained faithful. Their story reminds us that God’s timing is perfect, and His promises never fail (Luke 1:6, 13).
- Redemption is God’s Plan – John’s role was to prepare the way for Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation (Luke 1:76-79).
Connection to Other Scripture
- Isaiah 41:10 (KJV): “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee.”
- 2 Corinthians 5:7 (KJV): “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
- Hebrews 10:23 (KJV): “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised).”
Questions to Reflect On
- What is God calling me to step into with faith?
- Am I relying on my own strength or trusting in God’s presence?
- In what ways have I seen God fulfill His promises in my life?
- How can I be strong and courageous in my daily walk with Christ?
- Like Elisabeth and Zechariah, am I remaining faithful in the waiting?
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promises that never fail. Help me to walk in courage, trusting that You go before me. When doubt and fear arise, remind me of Your faithfulness. May I step out in faith, knowing that You are always with me. Like Elisabeth and Zechariah, may I remain faithful even in seasons of waiting, knowing that Your plans unfold in perfect timing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.