Be Bold, Be Strong

I was a very young man when I entered theological college to prepare for full-time ministry.

I felt inadequate for the demanding work that lay ahead. Who was I to imagine that I could be a leader and pastor of God’s people?

But throughout my time at college, we spoke a lot about Joshua’s experience. I realised that Joshua probably felt the same as I did when he was faced with the challenge of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

Maybe that is why Moses repeatedly urged him to be strong and courageous. He was keenly aware that by himself he lacked the resources for the demands of leadership in the years ahead. Joshua knew his limitations.

As we face the challenges of our day, we too may feel inadequate and weak.

But God still calls us to serve. It remains true that ‘God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong’ (1 Corinthians 1:27).

But it is also still true that whom God calls he also equips. His grace is sufficient for every task.

Prayer: Gracious God, as you call us into your service we ask for cour­age and compassion, that we may fulfil the tasks you assign to us. In Jesus’ name. Amen