Impact - Day 8

Day 8 – Now Then, You

Joshua 1:2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you…”

Every human being observes things they wish would be different. We all have pet peeves, a sense of what organizations should or should not do, observations about parenting, driving, or how to make a good cup of coffee. We all have opinions. And we share them freely. On Facebook or Instagram, around the dinner table, or in the church lobby, most of us are loud-opinionated.

But here's the thing: there's a clear divide between those who merely talk about problems and those who take action. The rare person sees a challenge and decides they are the one to do something positive about it.

In the leadership vacuum of Moses’ death, the people are sad and directionless. The Israelites are an organization without vision, a business without a CEO, or a political party without a candidate.

From the void, the voice of God directly addresses Joshua. “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you…,” He declares. God restates the issue and provides the solution. Joshua, it is you. And it is now.

I wonder if Joshua was tempted to let out a tired sigh or say in a whiney voice, “Does it have to be me?” The only evidence of hesitation is the forcefulness of God’s simple demand. “YOU.” “NOW.”

So, what about today? Complaining is easy. Our denomination appears concerned with all the wrong things. Our country has lost its moral compass, fewer and fewer care about God, and His people have lost the ability to love or even be civil. Seriously, someone should do something before it’s too late.

Out of the headlines of pain and YouTube clips of distraction, the voice of God calls to you and me, “Now then, you…” The time is now, and God’s answer is you.

Like Joshua’s predecessor, we may argue with God or whine about feelings of inadequacy. Meanwhile, the spiritual death toll continues to rise. Never forget that God doesn’t give us responsibility and then leave us to our own devices. His commitment is never to leave or forsake us. His power is meant to be unleashed through our willingness. Still, He prefers working through us rather than on His own.

So, will you show up, step out and lead? “Now then, you…”

1. What is a project you took on that was successful beyond your expectations? How did this happen?
2. Is there something you sense God calling you to accomplish? What is it? What is holding you back?