Move as He moves
As we continue our journey through the book of Joshua, we find ourselves, much like the Israelites, on the brink of new beginnings and Kingdom callings here at Freshwater. God is doing amazing things among us, and last Sunday, Pastor Jake encouraged each of us to “Get Up!” and move toward the callings He has placed on our lives.
Joshua 3 serves as a vivid illustration of moving in step with God. The Israelites, led by Joshua, were preparing to cross the Jordan River when God instructed them to walk behind the Ark of the Covenant, which represented God’s presence among them: “Do not come near it,” God said, “in order that you may know the way you shall go, for you have not passed this way before.”
Specifically, God commanded them to maintain a distance of about two thousand cubits from the Ark. This distance was not just a physical separation; it modeled a spiritual principle. By keeping their eyes on the Ark ahead of them, the Israelites would not be able to get out ahead of God.
Ultimately, the message is clear: To fulfill our kingdom calling, we must learn to move as God moves, staying close to His presence and following His lead every step of the way. We too must rely on God to guide us through the unknown paths of our callings.
We often face the temptation to rush ahead of God’s timing, driven by impatience or pride. However, the waiting period is crucial for preparation. Like David, Abraham and Joshua, we must embrace the seasons of preparation, trusting that God is shaping us for the greater work He has planned. As we navigate our callings, we must remain attuned to God’s presence, moving only when He moves, and trusting that He will open the way before us.
Reflection Questions
- Reflect on a time when you felt tempted to rush ahead of God’s timing. What did you learn from that experience, and how can you apply it to your current situation?
- Identify a specific area in your life where you sense God is calling you to wait and prepare. What steps can you take to embrace this season of preparation?
- Think about your unique kingdom calling. What distractions or comforts might be hindering you from fully embracing this calling, and how can you overcome them?
- How can you create space in your life for silence and stillness to better hear God’s voice and direction? What changes might you need to make to prioritize this practice?
- Reflect on a recent decision or action. How did you seek God’s guidance in that situation, and what was the outcome? How can you improve your approach to seeking God’s direction in future decisions?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from February 2
- “I Will Follow”
- “God With Us”
- “Only a Holy God”
- “Way Maker” (after the message)