“After the death of Moses the Lord’s servant, the Lord spoke to Joshua son of Nun, who had served Moses: “Moses My servant is dead. Now you and all the people prepare to cross over the Jordan to the land I am giving the Israelites.” (Joshua 1:1–2, HCSB)

Life can change in a millisecond. When that happens, everything you have ever known is suddenly flipped on its head. Your sense of security is gone. Your comfortable world can be shaken to its core. That abrupt change is never a pleasant experience, and sometimes, there is no where to run. You have to grind it out the best way you can.

Joshua had lived under Moses’ shadow for most of his life. There was one person that Joshua could always count on, especially when things were not good. Moses was the one person who knew how to deal with people that weren’t easy to work with. Moses could be counted on when he needed to know what God wanted them to do.

Now, Moses was no longer there. What did God do? He told Joshua to lead the people. I’m sure Joshua did not feel qualified. We never do when God gives us something to do. God said, “No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. I will be with you, just as I was with Moses. I will not leave you or forsake you. “Be strong and courageous, for you will distribute the land I swore to their fathers to give them as an inheritance. Above all, be strong and very courageous to carefully observe the whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or the left, so that you will have success wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:5–7, HCSB)

God reminded Joshua that he would not be alone. God said, “I will be with you like I was with Moses.” God’s presence makes all the difference in the world. His presence communicates that we are not alone. His power to do things in and through lives that are submitted to Him is beyond our comprehension. God told Joshua to be strong three times in this conversation. Do you think God was trying to encourage Joshua? He certainly was.

When you life suddenly changes, remember what God told Joshua. He will be there. You will not have to walk through this alone. Your life will be different. It may be uncomfortable. You may not like the new situation, but you can survive. Look to the Lord for strength, clarity, and courage.