Lessons from Joshua

I was reading about Polycarp while preparing for the sermon this week. Polycarp was an 86-year-old bishop who faced down Roman flames rather than deny Christ. When they offered him freedom if he’d just say “Caesar is Lord,” he famously replied, “86 years I have served Him and He has done me no wrong. How then can I blaspheme my King who saved me?”

Here’s what strikes me: Polycarp’s courage wasn’t fueled by some inner strength or iron will. It came from knowing, really knowing, that God was with him. Even in the flames.

Joshua faced something similar, though thankfully without the literal fire. Here’s this guy who’s been living in Moses’ shadow for decades. Moses, the man who spoke face-to-face with God, who parted the Red Sea, who brought down the plagues on Egypt. And now God taps Joshua on the shoulder and says, “You’re up, chief.”

I’d be terrified. Actually, I know I’d be terrified because I’ve been there. Maybe not leading a nation into battle, but standing on the edge of something way bigger than me. A calling that feels impossible. A grief that feels overwhelming. A leadership role I’m not qualified for.

But here’s what God tells Joshua, and what He tells us: “Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you” (Joshua 1:5). This isn’t just a nice sentiment. It’s a permanent commitment. God’s not saying “I’ll be with you until things get tough” or “I’ll stick around as long as you don’t mess up.” He’s making an unbreakable promise.

Some of you right now are standing at your own Jordan River, looking at something that feels impossible. Maybe it’s grief that feels like it’s going to swallow you whole. Maybe it’s a calling to step up and lead when you feel completely inadequate. Maybe it’s a diagnosis, a broken relationship, a prodigal child.

Remember this:

You’re not alone.

And you don’t need to be impressive.

Israel never was. But they had something better than military might or superior numbers. They had the presence of God.

Questions for reflection:

What “impossible” situation are you facing right now where you need to remember God’s presence? How would your approach change if you truly believed God was fighting your battles for you?