Road Trip: On the Go with God--Week 1

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." — Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

"Just as we prepare for a summer road trip with maps, snacks, and a destination in mind, God invites us to travel through life with Him as our Guide."

When was the last time you went on a road trip? There was excitement about packing your bags, mapping the route, and wondering what adventures awaited around the next bend. As I reflect, sometimes the roads were smooth and easy. Other times there were road detours, traffic jams, challenging weather, or other unexpected delays.

Life is a lot like a road trip.

As our scripture referenced, when Joshua received this message from God, he was preparing for a journey into unknown territory. Moses was gone, and Joshua was now responsible for leading God's people into the Promised Land. The road ahead was unfamiliar territory, it seemed challenging, and there were many reasons he could have been afraid to move forward.

Yet God did not hand Joshua a detailed map showing every turn. Instead, God gave him something even better—His presence. God promised, "I will be with you wherever you go."

The same promise is true for us today. Whether we are traveling to a new place, starting a new school year, making new friends, facing a difficult decision, or stepping into an unfamiliar season of life, God goes with us--we do not travel alone. Knowing this should provide some comfort, but we usually feel anxious about the unknown.

When fear tries to take the driver's seat, God tells us to be strong and courageous. Our courage does not come from knowing every detail of the journey. It comes from knowing the One who is traveling with us. God's Word is our spiritual Global Positioning System (GPS). The Word guides our everyday decisions, redirects us when we make wrong turns, and reminds us that our destination is always found in following Him.

As we enjoy this VBS Road Trip adventure, let's remember that every day is another opportunity to journey with God. Wherever the road leads, His presence goes before us, beside us, and behind us.

Yours In Christ,
Phyllis Baskin
Office Manager