An Enemy and A River

I felt the knots in my stomach as Tuesday’s election results came in, and the reality of the results became clear.  

Is this really happening in America, I wondered?  

I felt a heaviness and a deep sadness for so many reasons.  I know God is in control but that punch in the gut was there for me just the same.

I had decided on that day that I would re-visit the book of Joshua in my morning quiet time the following day.   And there it was that morning, such a clear and encouraging truth from God.  One I have known for years but need to hear again in times such as these.

God had led Israel across the wilderness, despite their disobedience, and brought them to this place of promise.

But Moses had just died.  Their leader was gone when they needed him the most.

Ahead of them was a strong enemy nation, extremely violent and ungodly.  Israel didn’t even have an army.

There was also the matter of the Jordan River.  God led them to the river at flood stage, the worst time for crossing.

Could things be more dismal or hopeless?

But this was all part of God’s plan.  His timing is always perfect – in HIS eyes, that is.  Very often, not in ours.

God didn’t let a funeral or a strong enemy or a raging river stop Him.

“Moses is dead.  Now cross the Jordan,” God said.

Moses died, but God’s faithfulness did not.

This is what we all need to remember as we look at the fearful prospects of what is happening in our country.  Or as we experience the turmoil and stress of our lives in our homes and families.

God’s promise to Israel is also His promise to each of His followers today.

Listen to what God told Joshua:

“No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life.  Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you.  I will not fail you or forsake you.”   (Joshua 1:5)

And hear what God says to believers today:

“…I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you, so that we confidently say, the Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid.  What will man do to me?”   (Hebrews 13:5-6)

The phrase, “I will not fail you,” in Joshua means that God will not relax His grip.

God will not let go of us who follow Him.

He is holding us as we see the rise of socialism and communism in America.

But He is also gripping our hand during every stress we face behind the walls of our own homes.  

I took these two pictures on the same day, at sunrise and sunset.  Let’s remember:

            “From the rising of the sun

           

  to its setting…

            the name of the Lord is to be praised.”   (Psalm 113:3)

Great is His faithfulness!

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Author: Patty hesaidwhatks

I'm Patty and I write about our adult son who has Epilepsy and Autism, who still lives with my husband and me, and who is a package full of many surprises and joys and challenges and TALK! Lots of talking, which creates laughter and some other reactions as well. I also write about how God shows Himself to me in everyday life.

18 thoughts on “An Enemy and A River”

  1. I pray that by the midterms people who voted for socialists in the election on Tuesday will realize it doesn’t work–never has, never will. Some people only learn by experience. Meanwhile, I have great hope for what Turning Point USA is accomplishing (other groups too) and will surely continue to accomplish over the next twelve months. May we indeed keep praising God for his infinite faithfulness. P.S. So glad you included those stunning sunrise/sunset photos. Their beauty does engender hope!

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    1. I also remind myself that these are blue states so in a way we shouldn’t be AS surprised at their choices. It’s still concerning, though, as I wonder why embracing socialism is so agreeable to them. There are lots of reasons for that, I know. I’m thankful for those who are working hard to educate and for groups like TPUSA and all the amazing work they’re doing. We will keep praying and trusting!

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  2. It’s inconceivable that communists, socialists, and antisemites are being elected to office in the U.S. Things have radically changed since 9/11.

    On the other hand, it isn’t surprising when you consider how our population has changed and it didn’t just happen. It’s been by design.

    The good news is nothing takes the Lord by surprise. He knew this was going to happen. And Bible prophecy warns us about the last days and what it will be like.

    Thank you, for writing this timely post, Patty. God bless you, my friend! 🙏

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    1. You’re right, Cindy. Our population change has been by design from those who, for whatever crazy reasons, hate the America we know and love. But God’s design will prevail in the end. I just pray that we can all stay alert and wise until then. I love the part you play in helping believers have discernment based on God’s Word. Bless you, Cindy!

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