A Way for Us to Rest
It feels intimidating to start something new without knowing how it will work out, whether a new relationship, job, project or even traveling to a new place. We never know what challenges we might face along the way.
After God met the people of Israel at Mount Sinai, He gave them a new identity (people belonging to Him), new values (the Ten Commandments), and a new destination (the Promised Land). They had no idea where to go or how long it would take. As God led them further into the wilderness, He also gave these desert-weary people a promise to be with them and give them rest.
They had a lot of questions—about everything! Would they be able to find food and water? Would they meet enemies on their journey? How would they live their lives?
Anytime we find ourselves in a new season, place, or situation, we cannot anticipate what we will need, and we get to benefit from the same promise God made to Israel then: His presence is enough, and we can trust Him.
No matter what happens or where we go, He will be with us, and He makes a way for us to rest.
You can trust that God will lead you into a future where rest is possible. Just as He provided Israel with manna to eat when they needed food, He provides for you, too. He is with you, and He is for you.
Timeless Wisdom
After being rescued from Egyptian slavery and wandering around in the wilderness for 40 years, the Hebrew people finally stood at the edge of the land God had promised.
Though their long-time leader, Moses, had just died, God appointed Joshua to take his place. During this transition of authority, God gave Joshua some wise advice:
“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
Joshua 1:8 NIV
The “Book of the Law” refers to the first five books of the Bible—also known as the Torah (in Hebrew) or the Pentateuch (in Greek). Today, we have that and more—66 books of the Bible, including the Old and New Testaments.
God gave the Law to Israel through Moses. These instructions reveal God’s intentions, character, and heart.
And even though God was speaking directly to Joshua at that time, His advice holds timeless ...