The Trumpet Sounds: ‘Cautious & Courageous’

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Last week we talked about being strong and courageous. We all need that encouragement because life is filled with many moments of challenge and crises. However, we must call to the forefront of our thoughts that our God is always greater than anything you or I will ever face.

2020 has been a time of challenge and crises. So far this year has been a year unlike any year most of us have faced before. Having to navigate through uncharted waters is a challenge. The good news is that we aren’t the first group of people on this planet to face circumstances that are unfamiliar to us. We are not the first or last group to face a dangerous virus. We are not the first or last group to face difficult challenges. We are not the first or last group to face political, social, and economical conflict.

In the Book of Joshua after God tells Joshua in chapter 1 to “Be strong and courageous” we see that Joshua and the Israelites are facing a new challenge. In Chapter 3 there is a barrier between where they are, and where they need to go. The barrier is the Jordan River. God has promised them a new land, but His promise isn’t absent of faith and work. Once they get across they will have to be strong and courageous to drive out the evil nations that are already in the land. However, before they can even begin that effort they must overcome the first barrier of crossing the Jordan, and it just happens to be at flood stage at the moment that they need to cross over.

Have you ever faced something that wasn’t just bad but it was “really” bad? There are bad situations and then there are the worst possible situations. The circumstances of Joshua 3:12-17 are the worst possible circumstances to be able to cross over. However, this wasn’t the first time Israel had faced a great barrier of water, but it was the first time they would face it without Moses. These are the moments that happen in life that are unexpected. Moments like these become a barrier that will challenge our faith and courage. Joshua and the Israelites were facing many unknowns but God was still with them. I love that our amazing God never asks us to do something that we are not able to do or accomplish with His help. I also love that our God almost encourages us to face what isn’t possible to show us what is possible when He is with us.

What barrier is between you and the place you’d like to be today? What has come in like a flood and seems impossible to cross? Maybe it’s a new challenge or a new crisis that you are facing. No matter what the situation may be I want to remind you that our God is always greater. We can have courage to face every day because He is with us. This Sunday at South Side we will continue this passage, and unpack what happens next and how it applies to our lives today. Worship begins at 10:15 and we have childcare that will be provided. We continue to take every precaution to keep you and your family safe. I encourage you to be cautious but also be courageous. For more information visit us at: www.southsidewch.com and see our safety plan as well as messages. God bless you and we hope to see you Sunday!

In Christ,

Barry Pettit

Lead Pastor

South Side Church of Christ

www.southsidewch.com

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By Barry Pettit

Religion Writer

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