SPEAKER_00: As we pray together today, find a quiet place where you can fully focus your attention on the creator of your soul.
SPEAKER_00: A famous passage in the Old Testament records a call from Moses to his successor Joshua for courage and trust in God as he enters into a new season of leadership and responsibility.
SPEAKER_00: Have I not commanded you, be strong and courageous.
SPEAKER_00: Do not be afraid.
SPEAKER_00: Do not be discouraged.
SPEAKER_00: For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
SPEAKER_00: Every new beginning starts with a first step, and that step can feel scary.
SPEAKER_00: But the same God who called Joshua forward is calling you, promising his presence every step of the way.
SPEAKER_00: Let's thank God in our own words that he never sends us where he won't go with us.
SPEAKER_00: He is in our future.
SPEAKER_00: He has gone before.
SPEAKER_00: He has seen the end from the beginning.
SPEAKER_00: Thank him for being faithful in both the starting and the finishing.
SPEAKER_00: Maybe something at work or a new season of parenting.
SPEAKER_00: Perhaps something new you need to do for your health or your family or your church community.
SPEAKER_00: Ask the Lord for courage to take the next step, even if it's small.
SPEAKER_00: Invite Him to replace fear with faith as you move forward.
SPEAKER_00: Ask that they would sense God's nearness and courage.
SPEAKER_00: If no one immediately comes to mind, wait a moment and see if the Lord will bring someone's face to mind.
SPEAKER_00: We step forward today with courage, knowing you go before us.
SPEAKER_00: Amen.