WEBVTT 00:00:04.719 --> 00:00:14.240 As we pray together today, find a quiet place where you can fully focus your attention on the creator of your soul. 00:00:15.119 --> 00:00:30.800 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. 00:00:31.199 --> 00:00:35.840 Have I not commanded you, be strong and courageous. 00:00:36.159 --> 00:00:37.840 Do not be afraid. 00:00:38.159 --> 00:00:40.079 Do not be discouraged. 00:00:40.320 --> 00:00:44.399 For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. 00:00:45.520 --> 00:00:51.359 Every new beginning starts with a first step, and that step can feel scary. 00:00:52.000 --> 00:01:00.880 But the same God who called Joshua forward is calling you, promising his presence every step of the way. 00:01:03.200 --> 00:01:10.400 Let's thank God in our own words that he never sends us where he won't go with us. 00:01:11.200 --> 00:01:13.040 He is in our future. 00:01:13.519 --> 00:01:15.439 He has gone before. 00:01:15.920 --> 00:01:19.200 He has seen the end from the beginning. 00:01:19.760 --> 00:01:25.280 Thank him for being faithful in both the starting and the finishing. 00:01:59.599 --> 00:02:03.680 Maybe something at work or a new season of parenting. 00:02:04.159 --> 00:02:12.000 Perhaps something new you need to do for your health or your family or your church community. 00:02:13.039 --> 00:02:18.159 Ask the Lord for courage to take the next step, even if it's small. 00:02:18.560 --> 00:02:23.919 Invite Him to replace fear with faith as you move forward. 00:03:09.360 --> 00:03:13.520 Ask that they would sense God's nearness and courage. 00:03:14.719 --> 00:03:24.560 If no one immediately comes to mind, wait a moment and see if the Lord will bring someone's face to mind. 00:04:03.039 --> 00:04:08.719 We step forward today with courage, knowing you go before us. 00:04:09.759 --> 00:04:10.400 Amen.