Listen to last week’s sermon : Moving Forward In God’s Plan – Joshua 1:1-9

On Sunday, April 27, 2025, after the congregation settled in their pews, the Worship Team sang uplifting songs to our Heavenly Father. As the last notes faded, Pastor Eric stepped behind the pulpit. His gaze swept over the people as he began his sermon. He said, “While I was preparing this week, spending time in prayer and reflection, a thought began to stir in my heart. It wouldn’t leave me. I really believe, deep down, that God is going to do something profound here today, not because of the messenger, but because of the message itself.” He paused, letting the words sink in. “And I believe that someone here, perhaps more than one of you, is struggling with their Promised Land. You yearn to go to the Promised Land.” Pastor Eric’s tone increased slightly as he elaborated, “The Promised Land isn’t only a physical location marked on a map, but something far more personal and significant. The Promised Land is someone entering his or her God-given destiny, his or her God-given plan, to finally go where God wants them to go, to fully embrace the purpose for which they were created, but they feel stuck. Immobile. They feel like they are not progressing, like a ship dead in the water. They feel like they are not moving forward, trapped in a cycle of unfulfillment.

“So today, my message is simply this: ‘Moving forward in God’s plan for our lives.’ That’s all. Simply moving forward, because sometimes, the hardest thing is just taking that first step, breaking free from the chains that bind us to the past and embracing the future”. Pastor Eric then clarified, “Now, some of you are already in God’s plan, right where you’re meant to be. Your call, your responsibility, is just to be faithful in that plan, to continue to serve and grow in the place God has called you to. But”, he emphasized, “there are others who know there’s more. You know there is something else, something deeper, something greater waiting for you. You know there is a shift on the horizon. There is another chapter waiting to be written in the book of your life. You are about to cross over somewhere, to transition into something different, something that is about to change the trajectory of your life. He raised his hands, gesturing towards the congregation. “There is a new beginning in your life, a fresh start, a chance to pursue your God-given destiny, but there’s something holding you back. Fear? Past regrets? Whatever it is, it’s preventing you from stepping into the fullness of your potential. Today, we are going to address that.”

Pastor Eric then invited us to open our Bibles to the first chapter of the book of Joshua.

Read Matthew 5:14-17

“It is essential, at this point”, Pastor Eric said, “to pause and draw a parallel to the calling placed upon Christians and the Church by Jesus Himself. His words in Matthew 5:14-17 resonate profoundly with the purpose outlined in Joshua. Jesus declares, “YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” The affirmation, “You are the light of the world”, echoes the charge given to the Israelites centuries before. Jesus further illustrates the absurdity of concealing such a vital light, stating that one does not light a lamp and conceal it under a bowl, but instead places it on a stand where its radiance can illuminate the surrounding area. The conclusion is evident: Christians, like the Israelites back then, are called to be visible and to shine brightly in a world often shrouded in darkness. Our actions, our words, and our very lives are meant to reflect the light of Christ, guiding others toward truth, hope, and ultimately, salvation. Just as Joshua and the Israelites were tasked with being a light to the nations, so too are modern-day believers called to embody the same purpose, extending the reach of God’s love and grace to the far corners of the earth.

This message carries a profound call to action with respect to letting our light shine. It’s more than a suggestion; it’s a declaration of our nature as believers. It isn’t about striving to become light, but recognizing and embracing the light that already resides within us, a light emanating from our connection to our Father, the ‘Father of all lights.’ Just as Jesus Christ is described as the ‘light of the world’, and God Himself is pure, devoid of any darkness, we, as His children, inherit this illuminating quality.

The analogy of a city set on a hill is particularly powerful. A city strategically placed upon a hill cannot be concealed. Its presence and visibility are undeniable. The passage states that we are a city; therefore, we are not meant to be obscured, to shrink back into the shadows, or to live lives characterized by anonymity and fear. God’s desire for us is the opposite of concealment. He yearns for us to be shining beacons, illuminating the world around us with the goodness and grace He has bestowed upon us. The shining, however, is not merely a passive state. It’s an active manifestation of our faith. It’s about embodying the teachings and principles of Christ in our daily lives. It’s about reflecting His love, compassion, and righteousness in our interactions with others. It’s about living in a way that inspires and uplifts, offering hope to those who are struggling and guidance to those who are lost. Our good works become visible manifestation of this inner light, compelling others to recognize and glorify our Father in heaven. These are not acts performed for personal gain or recognition, but rather selfless expressions of love and service, born from a genuine desire to reflect God’s character in the world. Then verse 16 makes a crucial distinction. It states, “Let your light shine…” Notice it does not say ‘Try to be a light’, nor ‘Try to work on being a light.’ This knocks down the common belief that we must first become worthy or perfect before we can radiate God’s light. Instead, it affirms that the light is already there, embedded within us through our relationship with God. Our focus, therefore, should not be on achieving some unattainable standard of perfection, but on actively removing the obstacles that hinder our light from shining brightly.

1 – To move forward, Joshua needed to arise.

“Now”, Pastor Eric, said with conviction, “I firmly believe that the message God communicated to Joshua was not just a fleeting moment of inspiration; it was a pivotal turning point for both him as a leader and for the entire nation of Israel. It was the key that allowed them to move forward with confidence and purpose in God’s grand and divinely orchestrated plan. Without that understanding, they would have been lost, wandering aimlessly in the wilderness. And what we’re about to explore together, this very concept of going deeper with God, is not just for some elite few. It’s absolutely essential for you and I, for every single one of us who yearns to go deeper in our faith, who longs to go further in our understanding of God’s will for our lives. We’re talking about the person who is not just satisfied to dip his or her toes in the water, testing the temperature and quickly retreating to the safety of the shore. No, we’re talking about the person who is willing to plunge in headfirst, to immerse himself or herself completely in the life-giving currents of God’s presence. This is about going deep with God, exploring the profound depths of His infinite wisdom and understanding. It’s about going deep with God’s blessing, unlocking the overflowing abundance that He desires to bestow upon us. It’s about going deep with God’s purposes, discovering the unique and meaningful role He has designed specifically for each of us to play in His unfolding story. It’s about going deep with God’s activities, partnering with Him and His work of restoration and redemption in the world. And, most importantly, it’s about going deep in a profound and transformative relationship with God, cultivating a connection that is intimate, authentic, and eternally fulfilling.” “So, let me ask you plainly”, Pastor Eric said, “How many of you seek to go forward? How many of you are ready to leave behind the shallows and venture into the deep?

Pastor Eric invited us to read Joshua 1:1-9. “After the death of Moses, the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide. ‘Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan river into the land I am about to give to them – to the Israelites. I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates – all the Hittite country – to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. ‘Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 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 1:1-9 provides rich material for preaching. This passage provides a powerful and timeless message, a beacon of hope and direction particularly valuable in times of discouragement. When our spirits are low, this passage prompts us to find strength in the Lord.

The very first command the Lord gives Joshua is: “Arise!” This isn’t just a casual suggestion; it’s a divine call to action that sets the stage for everything that follows. Pastor Eric stated with enthusiasm, “I believe that before we can truly step into God’s plans for our lives, we too must first arise. Consider the context. Verse 2 tells us, “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them – to the Israelites.” Moses, the leader, the one who guided them for forty years, is gone. Imagine the weight of that loss, the sense of uncertainty that must have permeated the Israelites. For forty years Moses led them, and now he is gone!

The Hebrew word translated “arise” carries a depth of meaning far beyond simply standing up physically. While it certainly involves the physical act of standing, it also signifies a deeper, more profound awakening. It speaks of standing up spiritually. It’s a call to “get ready for action”, to prepare to move forward with purpose and determination. It’s an invitation to cross over the Jordan and into the Promised Land, those rivers of fear, doubt, and inadequacy that so often hold us back. The Lord is essentially saying, “Don’t remain passive. Don’t succumb to complacency. Get ready. Stay awake. Stay sober. Don’t just sit there, paralyzed by the enormity of the task ahead. No, Stand up. Face the future with courage and faith.”

Read Deuteronomy 34:8

Consider Joshua’s likely state of mind at this moment. Deuteronomy 34:8 tells us that “…the people of Israel wept for Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days…” Thirty days of mourning is a short period of collective grief. Even after that formal mourning period, it is unreasonable to think that Joshua might not still have been wrestling with feelings of loss and perhaps even fear. After all, he was now tasked with filling the shoes of one of the greatest leaders in history. He was about to lead a nation into a land filled with enemies. The weight of responsibility must have been immense! Perhaps Joshua was tempted to remain in a state of mourning, to linger in the familiar comfort of the past. But God’s command to “arise” was a direct challenge to that tendency. It was a call to shake off the dust of grief and to step boldly into the future that God had prepared for him. And that is a powerful lesson for us today. When we experience loss, when we face challenges that seem insurmountable, when discouragement threatens to overwhelm us, God’s word to us is the same: ‘Arise!” Stand up in faith.

Stand up! Don’t let the weight of your past keep you from stepping into the glorious future He has planned for you. We may be tempted to linger in our comfort zones, to avoid the risks and uncertainties that lie ahead. But God is calling us to something more, something greater. He is calling us to arise, to cross over our own Jordans, and to claim the promises He has already given us.

The air must have been thick with grief, a palpable weight pressing down on everyone, but most especially on Joshua. Imagine him, still heavily burdened with grief, his mind reeling with the shift that had just occurred. Moses was not just a leader, but a spiritual father, and a mentor, and he was gone. The nation was undoubtedly in turmoil, their future suddenly shrouded in uncertainty, but for Joshua, the loss was infinitely more personal. He wasn’t just grappling with the future of a nation; he was grappling with the gaping hole left in his own life. For decades, Joshua had walked in Moses’ footsteps, learning at the feet of a giant. He’d observed Moses’ unwavering faith in the face of immense adversity, witnessed miracles unfold, and participated in the shaping of a nation. Remember the daunting task of leading the twelve spies into the Promised Land? That was Joshua, a vessel used by God under the steadfast leadership of Moses. And now, that guiding light, was turned off. Moses, the leader, the friend, the confidant, was gone.

Pastor Eric remarked, “It must have been agonizing for Joshua to witness Moses’ passing. He undoubtedly yearned for more guidance from Moses. But amidst the turmoil, amidst the overwhelming sense of loss, something remarkable happens. God, in His infinite wisdom and power, doesn’t offer His condolences. He doesn’t say, ‘Poor Joshua, what a difficult situation you are in.’ God is compassionate, undeniably so, and I wouldn’t want to misrepresent His character in any way. But His response goes beyond mere sympathy. God commands Joshua to arise! Stand up!”

The weight of leadership can be a heavy burden. Picture Joshua, standing in the shadow of Moses, the leader who led them out of Egypt, the man who spoke face-to-face with God. Moses is gone. The people are adrift, mourning, questioning. They cling to the familiar comfort of the past, replaying the glory days, the manna from heaven, the parting of the Red Sea. But in this moment of profound grief and uncertainty, God speaks. Not with booming thunder from a mountaintop, but with a firm, unwavering voice that resonates deep within Joshua’s soul: “Arise!” It’s not a gentle suggestion, but a command. “Stand up! Moses is gone!” The past is a valuable teacher, but it cannot become a prison. “Joshua”, God says, “I’m going to need you to stop dwelling in the past. The Red Sea has been parted, the manna has fallen, but there are new rivers to cross, new lands to conquer. I am about to do something through you, Joshua, and through this whole community. I’m about to continue the vision that I gave my servant Moses. The vision of a promised land, a place of freedom and prosperity. Moses is gone but not the vision. And I’m choosing you today to be his successor.” He already knew that would happen eventually, but now is the time. “And I need you to arise because you can’t go where you are supposed to go, unless you arise. You cannot move forward if you are stuck in the past, if you are paralyzed by fear, if you are weighed down by doubt. “Joshua, you cannot cross over to the land I’ve prepared for you if you continue to dwell in the past glory days with Moses, because Moses is gone. The past is gone. God is calling you to something new, something greater…”

“Or, maybe”, Pastor Eric continued, “you are here today, and you are dwelling in the past, but they are not glory days at all. Perhaps for you, it is a past of regrets.” Then, his voice, filled with compassion rang out again: “God is speaking to someone here today, arise! You are on the precipice, about to cross over into a new season of purpose and fulfillment, but you cannot cross over until you arise, until you stand up tall, facing the future with unwavering faith. You cannot cross over until you get ready to cross the Jordan into the Promised Land, until you shed the weight of yesterday and embrace God’s promise of tomorrow.”

Roy T. Bennett said: “The past is a place of reference, not a place of residence.”

Pastor Eric’s voice resonated through the sanctuary. “I felt this strongly in my spirit, Church, that it’s time. It’s time for our church to shine again! I’m not talking about a fleeting flicker, a momentary burst of light. I’m talking about a sustained, radiant glow that permeates our community and beyond.” He paused, letting his words sink in. “It’s time for our church to rise up and stand up and speak up! To shine – not just for ourselves, but to illuminate the path for others. To lead and influence our generation, our community, and even the Church itself, the nation, and the world again, just like they did in the early Church! That same fire that characterized those early believers is within us, but it needs to be rekindled. But we cannot do this unless we are arising ourselves. We can’t do this if we dwell in the past, tethered to what was, instead of embracing what can be. We can’t do this unless we let go of something that’s holding us back. And I know, letting go is never easy. Maybe it’s a past filled with regrets, with mistakes we wish we could undo. We have to be willing to forgive ourselves, and to forgive others, to truly move forward.” He then shifted his focus. “Also, sometimes we can’t rise up, not just because of internal baggage, but because something or someone is holding us back. It may be one person, a toxic relationship that drains our energy and faith. Or it may be many people, a culture of negativity within our own community. These are the anchors that keep us from sailing into the future God has planned for us. Pastor Eric then drew a powerful parallel from Scripture. “You know, Abraham understood this principle. For him to go where God was calling him, he had to let go. God asked Abraham to let go of his family, to let go of his homeland. He was called to give up his homeland and his family to go to the land that God was going to show him. He had to let go of someone, of familiar relationships, in order to fully embrace the destiny God had prepared for him. And that’s the challenge before us today, Church. What are we holding onto that’s preventing us from stepping into our God-given potential? What must we release to truly shine, to truly rise, and to truly impact the world for Christ?”

Maybe some people in our lives are subtly influencing us to go backwards instead of moving forward. Perhaps their actions, seemingly harmless on the surface, are actually stifling our progress. We need to be vigilant because we could be held back from reaching our full potential in Christ, trapped in a cycle of regression instead of embracing our God-given destiny.

Pastor Eric emphasized a crucial point about Christian discipleship: our faith isn’t meant to be confined within the walls of the church or the company of fellow believers. He argues that we, as Christians, are specifically called to be a light, a beacon in the world. But, the effectiveness of our light is tied to where we choose to shine. Imagine a room already ablaze with artificial light. If someone then shines a flashlight, its beam would be practically imperceptible, its purpose lost in the overwhelming brightness. This analogy highlights a vital truth: our light shines best in darkness. Pastor Eric suggests that if we limit our interactions to other Christians, we risk creating a closed-off environment, disengaged from the wider world – a “flashlight party”, as he vividly described it – where our individual lights are amplified, yes, but ultimately contribute little to the world outside. We become so focused on reinforcing each other’s faith that we neglect our calling to reach those who are most in need of guidance and hope. Therefore, our calling extends beyond merely associating with other Christians. It’s a call to action, a call to shine our light in the darkness. This means engaging with individuals who are struggling, who are lost, who are broken, and who haven’t yet found their way to Jesus. It’s a call to step outside our comfort zones and into the lives of those who desperately need the compassion and love that Christ embodies. However, this doesn’t mean completely severing ties with those who don’t share our beliefs. He strongly refutes the idea that we should isolate ourselves from unbelievers. Instead, he presented a crucial question for self-reflection: Are the people around us influencing us away from God, or are we influencing them to draw closer to God? The answer to this question, should ultimately guide our actions. It will determine the nature of our relationships, the boundaries we set, and the level of involvement we have with those around us. It challenges us to be mindful of the influence we exert and the influence we receive. It’s not about judging others, but about discerning the spiritual impact of our connections and ensuring that our lives are a testament to our faith, drawing others towards the light of God rather than being pulled away from it ourselves. In essence, we must be intentional and prayerful about how we navigate our relationship with unbelievers, always striving to be a positive influence for Christ.

Steve Maraboli said, “Letting go means coming to the realization that some people are part of your history, but not part of your destiny.” Sometimes, God orchestrates events in our lives, guiding us towards a path of growth and fulfillment. A crucial, and often painful, part of this journey involves recognizing and releasing relationships that are no longer service our highest good. These are the connections where, despite our best intentions, the influence is pulling us backward, hindering our progress instead of propelling us forward toward the person God intends us to be. Letting go of these individuals, even those we deeply care about, is a testament to our faith and a demonstration of our commitment to aligning ourselves with God’s purpose. This act of severing ties, though necessary for our spiritual development, is undoubtedly one of the most challenging things we can do. The bonds of friendship, the comfort of familiarity, and the shared history can create a powerful gravitational pull, making it difficult to break free. We may rationalize staying connected, clinging to the hope that things will change or that we can somehow influence them in a positive direction. However, sometimes, the most loving thing we can do – for ourselves and for them – is to create distance and allow God to work in both our lives independently. Pastor Eric understood this difficult truth firsthand. When he first embraced Christianity and embarked on his spiritual journey, he faced the heart-wrenching decision to let go of some of his closest friends. These were not mere acquaintances; these were individuals with whom he shared significant moments and built lasting memories. They had done life together, supporting each other through thick and thin, sharing laughter, tears, and countless experiences that forged a deep connection. Yet, as he grew in his faith, Pastor Eric recognized that their lifestyle and choices were pulling him away from the values and principles he was striving to uphold. The influence, though perhaps unintentional, was detrimental to his newfound path. Letting go wasn’t easy. He grappled with feelings of guilt, sadness, and loneliness. He questioned whether he was being disloyal or judgmental. However, through prayer and introspection, he understood that his commitment to God had to take precedence. It was a painful but necessary step, a sacrifice he made to protect his spiritual growth and ensure he was walking the path God had laid out for him. His story serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes, letting go is not an act of abandonment, but an act of faith and self-preservation, allowing God to cultivate the soil of our lives and plant new seeds of growth and prosperity.

Read Numbers 12:9-10

2 – To move forward, Joshua needed a resolve to trust in God’s presence.

Joshua needed a deep, unwavering resolve to trust in God’s presence, a conviction that would anchor him amidst the immense pressure he was about to face. This was a fundamental requirement for the monumental task that lay before him. The gravity of this requirement becomes clear when considering the colossal figure Joshua was replacing. It wasn’t just any leader he was succeeding; it was Moses. He had, quite literally, big shoes to fill. Moses was, without a doubt, one of the greatest figures in history. The significance of Moses’ role is underscored by the repeated phrase used to describe him: “servant of the Lord”. This designation appears no less than 12 times throughout Scripture, solidifying his importance. It was an honourable title, a testament to Moses’ unwavering dedication and intimate relationship with God. Think about what that title implied. “This is My servant”. This is the man God used to deliver an entire nation from 400 years of slavery, a deliverance brought about with spectacular signs and wonders. Miracles beyond human comprehension had marked Moses’ ministry, confirming his divine appointment and demonstrating God’s power. He had confronted Pharaoh, weathered plagues, and led a nation across a seemingly impossible divide. Moreover, Moses enjoyed God’s personal protection and defence. Imagine the level of favour! Consider the account in Numbers 12. When Miriam and Aaron dared to gossip and criticize Moses, God did not simply rebuke them; He intervened directly and dramatically. Miriam, along with her family members, was afflicted with leprosy as a consequence of her slander. Can you imagine a world where every instance of gossip resulted in such immediate and tangible retribution? Isn’t that a startling thought, a profound illustration of the weight God placed on defending His servant?

So, this was the man Joshua was tasked with succeeding. It was in this man’s shoes that he must walk. The magnitude of the task was almost overwhelming. This wasn’t just any leader; this was the man whose face shone with God’s glory, radiating the divine presence for all to see. His face literally emanated the glory of God because he had been in the intimate presence of God for 40 days on the mountain, receiving divine instruction and building an unshakeable connection. This was the man who communicated with God face-to-face. Moses possessed awe-inspiring power: the power to part the Red Sea, to decimate the Egyptian army with a wave of his hand, to have water gush out of a rock, and to deliver the Ten Commandments to the Israelites. Moses was, in essence, the tangible embodiment of God’s presence and power. How could Joshua ever hope to equal the miraculous feats and the profound connection that defined Moses?

The answer to this question does not lie in Joshua’s abilities or his prior experience. While Joshua had military prowess, perfected through years of service alongside Moses, his success did not hinge solely on his strategic skills or sharp tactics. The key to Joshua’s success resides in a promise, a divine assurance found in Joshua 1:5: “Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you.” Joshua’s strength came not from within himself, but from the same source that made Moses a figure of great significance: the unwavering presence and power of God. “Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you.” This is the foundation upon which Joshua’s leadership, and ultimately the success of the Israelites, was built.

Pastor Eric’s voice resonated with conviction. “It’s not because of your IQ”, he declared. “It’s not because of your ability to create complex strategies or clever plans. No, the true source of your strength is because God, in His infinite grace and mercy, is going to be with you, just as He was with Moses.” He paused, letting the weight of those words sink into the hearts of the people present. “Oh, friends”, he continued, “the very same God that was intimately present with Moses on Mount Sinai, that same God is with us today, here and now! The God that walked with Abraham, promising him a nation and blessings beyond measure, that same God is with us today! The God that empowered Elijah to call down fire from heaven, silencing the prophets of Baal, that same God is with us today!” He continued, building momentum, drawing a line through history connecting us to the giants of faith. “The same God that was the guiding light of the early Church, empowering them to spread the gospel in the face of persecution and hardship, that same God is with us today! The same God that was with the apostle Paul as he preached the truth to the Gentiles, with Peter as he boldly proclaimed the Resurrection, with John as he wrote the book of Revelation, that same God is with us today!” He shifted his tone, drawing a direct line to our own lives. “And God said to Joshua, as he stood on the precipice of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, burdened with the weight of Moses’ legacy, ‘I will be with you like I was with Moses’. In other words,” Pastor Eric explained, “What I did with Moses, the miracles I performed, the guidance I provided, the protection I offered – I could do with you!” He took a step forward, connecting with individual eyes. “It’s not because of our inherent talents, our individual abilities, or our spiritual gifts, although they certainly matter, and they absolutely play a role in God’s plan for our lives. But ultimately, it’s because God will be with us. He will empower us, guide us, and protect us, not based on our merit, but based on His unending love and faithfulness. The question hung in the air, unspoken yet potent. He voiced it aloud: “Do we truly value God’s presence in our lives? Do we actively seek His presence through prayer, through worship, through the study of His Word? God promises to never leave us nor forsake us. It’s an unbreakable promise, but there is something profound about the manifestation of God’s presence. The presence that we know is there. He’s in the room! He makes His presence known and felt. Moses wasn’t just intellectually convinced of God’s existence. He experienced God. And in those moments of deep connection, he declared, “I don’t want to go unless You come with me. I don’t want to go unless Your glory comes.” He understood that his mission and his very survival depended not just on God’s plan, but on God’s tangible presence. “We must have that same desperation” Pastor Eric urged. “We must move beyond simply acknowledging God’s existence and crave His active participation in our lives. It’s not enough to say, “God, I thank you that I have you in my life.” That’s a starting point, yes, but we must cry out, “I want more of You! I want Your presence with me, the same presence that was with these great men and women of God. Abraham, David, Ruth, Esther…” They didn’t just believe in God; they walked with Him, they felt His guiding hand, they witnessed His miraculous interventions. “I want Him and need Him in my life.” God desires intimacy with us. He doesn’t want to be a distant deity, observing from afar. He wants to be intertwined with our lives, guiding our steps, comforting our sorrows, and celebrating our joys. That desperation, that longing for His presence, is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of a heart truly seeking Him. It’s the key that unlocks a deeper, more meaningful relationship with Him.

It’s easy to understand why Joshua might have felt overwhelmed, questioning his own abilities and wondering how he could possibly measure up. The sheer magnitude of Moses’ accomplishments could easily cast a shadow of doubt, breeding insecurity and hindering Joshua’s ability to step into his own divinely appointed role. The truth is, however, that God’s power isn’t confined to a select few “super-Christians”. We often fall into the trap of elevating these giants of faith to a level of ‘superheroes’, forgetting that they were fundamentally human. We see their extraordinary deeds, their undeniable impact on the world, and we assume they possessed some superhuman strength or wisdom that is simply beyond our grasp. But James reminds us that these figures, these towering people of faith, were “people with the same nature as ours”. They experienced the same fears, the same anxieties, the same doubts, and the same temptations that we do. The fact that they were ordinary people, just like us, then what they accomplished becomes not just inspiring, but also attainable. Their achievements become less about their capabilities and more about their unwavering faith in a God who is equally accessible to us. The key lies not in trying to be them, but in embracing the same God who empowered them.

This truth extends to every generation. We stand on the shoulders of giants, looking up at those who have gone before us – Moses, the revivalists like Billy Graham and David Wilkerson – and we often feel inadequate. We see their profound impact on the world, their ability to stir hearts and minds, and we think, “I could never do that.” We feel dwarfed by their legacies, convinced that we lack the necessary qualities to make a similar impact. But the message is clear: God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. He doesn’t require us to be perfect or flawless, but simply willing to offer ourselves, our talents, and our vulnerabilities to His service. We are not meant to be replicas of the great men and women of faith who have preceded us, but rather to discover and embrace our own unique roles in God’s grand plan. We have different roles, different functions, and different purposes, designed specifically for us, for this time.

Therefore, instead of allowing feelings of inadequacy to paralyze us, we should draw courage from the example of those who have gone before. We should remember that the same God who empowered them is with us, ready to equip us with the wisdom, strength, and resources we need to fulfill our own divinely appointed assignments. He is not looking for perfect individuals, but for willing hearts, for those who are ready to step out in faith and trust in His unwavering presence. They key is not to compare ourselves to others, but to fix our eyes on Jesus and to trust that He will guide us, empower us, and use us to accomplish His purposes in our generation.

A.W. Tozer once declared, “Without the presence of God, there is no power of God.” It’s a simple statement, yet it reverberates with the weight of truth. Think about it: if we truly desire to accomplish extraordinary things for God, to partner with Him in ways that leave a lasting impact, then we must cultivate a daily, intimate walk in His presence. This isn’t about a fleeting prayer in the morning or a quick Bible verse at lunch; it’s about a conscious, ongoing awareness of His nearness, a constant communion that permeates every aspect of our lives.

The secret Joshua was about to discover laid beyond military strategy or political maneuvering. It wasn’t about his strength, his abilities, or his intelligence. Too often, we fall into the trap of believing that God calls the qualified, when the reality is He qualifies the called. Pastor Eric once heard a preacher deliver a line that stuck with him. “When God puts a calling on your life, He already factored in your stupidity.” Isn’t that comforting? It’s almost a relief. Most of us operate under the mistaken assumption that God is somehow surprised by how utterly unqualified we feel. We think He’s scratching His head, wondering how He could have possibly chosen us for such a monumental task. But He’s not! He knew our limitations, our weaknesses, our tendencies to stumble, before He even breathed life into our lungs. He saw the full scope of our imperfections, and He still chose us. Look around. We see examples of this all the time. There are brilliant individuals who are perpetually stuck in neutral, their potential unrealized. They may have all the answers, but they lack the divine spark, the God-given momentum to propel them forward. Similarly, there are incredibly strong people, physically and emotionally resilient, who remain trapped in cycles of frustration and stagnation. They can lift mountains, but they are still stuck. And what about the highly capable and knowledgeable individuals, possessing a wealth of skills and information, yet unable to cross over their Jordan, unable to break through to the next level of their calling? They have the map, but they lack the divine GPS.

The real question, the one that truly matters, isn’t how smart we are, how strong we are, or how capable we are. The crucial question is this: “Is the God of Moses with us? Is God a living reality in our lives? Are we with God? Are we actively pursuing His presence, surrendering our will to His, and aligning our hearts with His purpose? Are we walking with God, not just occasionally glancing in His direction? Ultimately, the true test of our connection with God lies not only in our personal experience but also in the observable impact it has on those around us. Can people around us see the signature of God around our life, in our life, and through our life? Is our character marked by His grace, our actions guided by His wisdom, and our words infused with His love? Are others drawn to Jesus because His essence radiates from you? That’s the ultimate measure of a life lived in the power of God’s presence. It’s not about what we can do for God, but about what God can do through us when we surrender ourselves to His will and dwell continually in His presence.

Read Romans 8:31 and Matthew 10:28

As Pastor Eric emphasized, Joshua’s true strength is attributed to his relationship with God. The core message resonating through Joshua 1:1-9 isn’t simply an encouragement to be brave; it’s a divine imperative. God repeatedly commands Joshua to be strong and courageous. This repetition isn’t redundant; it’s a crucial reminder that strength and courage aren’t inherent qualities automatically possessed. They are a deliberate choice, a conscious decision to align ourselves with God’s will. This reveals that we are not inherently strong or courageous. We don’t just wake up feeling invincible. Instead, we must intentionally cultivate these qualities, nurturing them through faith and reliance on God.

Pastor Eric illuminated this point beautifully, stating, “I think it’s much easier to be strong and courageous once we know that the God of Moses is going to be with us.” The knowledge of God’s unwavering presence forms the bedrock of true courage. It’s the assurance that even amidst the most challenging trials, we are not alone. This isn’t just a passing belief; it’s an active, vibrant understanding that God is actively involved in our lives, guiding, protecting, and empowering us.

This understanding reframes our perspective on fear. The passage alludes to the powerful truth found elsewhere in Scripture: “If God is with you and for you, who can be against you? (Romans 8:31) Our fears need to be put into proper perspective. Instead of fearing human beings who can only inflict physical harm, we are urged to cultivate a proper fear of God – a reverential awe and respect for His power and holiness. As Pastor Eric emphasized, we are not to fear those who take away our lives but fear the One who can take our lives and cast us into hell. (Matthew 10:28)

3 – To move forward, Joshua needed to have confidence in the presence of God.

The challenge Joshua faced as he stepped into the enormous shoes of Moses was daunting, but the key to his success in fulfilling God’s will, rested squarely on obedience – not just a passive acknowledgment of God’s existence, but an active and engaged obedience to the Word of God. This isn’t presented as a suggestion or a helpful tip; it’s depicted as absolutely essential. The passage then drills down to a specific instruction found in Joshua 1:8, where God provides Joshua with a direct, unambiguous roadmap. God’s words are not vague or open to interpretation. He commands, “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” This promise of prosperity and success is directly linked to adhering to the principles and commands within the Book of the Law.

Pastor Eric then introduces a crucial nuance, a potential pitfall that many believers might stumble into. He emphasizes, “I don’t know if you see this, but God did not say to Joshua, “Read your Bible”. He reinforces this point by suggesting a deeper linguistic analysis, stating, “If you study the Hebrew text, it does not say, “Read your Bible”. This isn’t an attack on the act of reading the Bible, but a clarification of its purpose and a warning against superficial engagement. He argues that merely reading God’s Word, while not inherently wrong, is insufficient. Many individuals, he contends, diligently read Scripture but remain stagnant, failing to progress in God’s grand design for their lives. The reason, according to Pastor Eric, is simple: “Because God never said ‘Read your Bible’. He says, ‘Make sure it doesn’t depart from your mouth.’ He says, ‘Meditate on it day and night.’ He says, ‘Be careful to do according to all that is written in it.’”

Pastor Eric then highlights a common shortcoming among Christians. “Many Christians today read and study their Bible, but they stop there.” He paints a picture of diligent Bible readers who, despite their efforts fail to grasp the full intent of God’s command. The problem isn’t the reading or studying, but the lack of translation from knowledge to action. He concludes with a powerful call to action, a reminder of the true purpose of engaging with Scripture. “We are not just called to read. We are called to apply.” The essence of obedience, according to the passage, lies not in the accumulation of biblical knowledge, but in the active and intentional application of that knowledge to every aspect of life. It’s about transforming the words on the page into a living, breathing reality, allowing the Word of God to guide decisions, shape character, and ultimately, propel us forward in fulfilling our divine purpose. The passage challenges readers to move beyond passive intake and instead embrace a life of active obedience – one marked by speaking, meditating on, and living out the Word of God.

We often think hearing is enough. We attend services, we listen to sermons, we absorb the words spoken, and then we move on with our week. But the call of faith is far more demanding than simply receiving information. We are not just called to hear; we are called to do. It’s a call to active participation, not passive consumption. And so, God, in his infinite wisdom, doesn’t just say, “Listen once and forget”. He says, “You have to remember it.” The Word of God isn’t meant to be a fleeting thought, a temporary inspiration that vanishes with the final amen. “It can’t depart from your lips”. It should be woven into the fabric of our conversations, shaping our perspectives and influencing our interactions. It needs to be a constant presence, a guiding principle that we actively recall and revisit. Furthermore, He implores us to meditate on it. Meditation is a cornerstone of a meaningful faith life. To meditate on the Word is to dwell on it, to chew it over, to allow it to permeate our thoughts and transform our hearts. It’s about digging deeper than the surface level, unearthing the nuances and the profound truths contained within. It’s about allowing the Word to speak to us personally, revealing its relevance to our specific circumstances and challenges. And finally, and perhaps most importantly, we have to be careful to do all that it says. This is where the rubber meets the road. This is where faith moves from intellectual assent to practical application. You say, “I read four chapters today” and that’s commendable. Discipline and engagement with Scripture are essential, but the real question isn’t about the quantity of our reading; it’s about the quality of our application. How many of those four chapters have you put into practice? Have you allowed the principles you read to inform your decisions, shape your behaviour, and impact your relationships? That’s the question that truly matters.

That’s precisely why we have connection groups. Did you know that? We invest significant time preaching messages that we believe the Holy Spirit is putting in our heart. They are carefully considered attempts to connect the truths of Scripture to the everyday realities of our lives. And then we don’t want to just move on and eat our chicken. We don’t want the impact of the message to dissipate with the first bite of Sunday lunch. Instead, we want to break into small groups and go deeper. We want to create a space where individuals can wrestle with the implications of the message, sharing their insights, their struggles, and their questions. It’s about fostering a sense of community and mutual accountability, where we can support each other in the journey of applying the Word to our lives. The question isn’t just “What does the message say?” but “How does that apply in my life today?” How does it challenge my assumptions, reshape my priorities, and empower me to live more fully in accordance with God’s will? And today, perhaps you have some questions churning inside you. Perhaps you’re struggling with a particular aspect of the message or unsure how to translate it into practical action. You may not feel comfortable lifting your hand during the sermon, asking a potentially vulnerable question in front of a large audience, because this is not really the place for it. But in a connection group, you can. In a connection group, you can find the freedom to express your doubts, share your struggles, and seek guidance from others who are on a similar journey. In a connection group, you can go deeper into the meaning and application of the Word you heard, moving beyond abstract concepts to concrete actions. It’s about asking, “How do I apply this in my life? How can we apply this in our lives?” It’s about transforming from passive listeners into active participants, empowered to live out the Word in every aspect of our being.

Having all this information, all this knowledge, simply residing within the confines of our minds feels incomplete, almost useless. It’s like hoarding a treasure without ever spending it, or possessing a map without ever taking a journey. We yearn to move beyond intellectual understanding, to translate these abstract concepts into tangible action. We crave the opportunity to put this knowledge into practice, to reach out with our hands and our feet and actively engage with the world around us, guided by the principles we’ve learned. Because let’s be clear, God never intended for us to merely be passive recipients of Scripture. He didn’t just ask us to passively read our Bibles, absorbing the words like dry sponges. He didn’t simply want us to amass a collection of verses and stories to be recited on demand. His intention goes far beyond the act of reading itself. Instead, He calls us to a much more profound and demanding task: to actively apply the wisdom and guidance contained within those pages to the very fabric of our lives. He asks us to internalize the teachings, to let them shape our thoughts, inform our decisions, and ultimately, direct our actions in the world. He expects us to live out our faith, to embody the principles of love, compassion, and justice, and to use our knowledge to make a tangible difference it the lives of others. In essence, He calls us not just to read the Word, but to become the Word in action.

Read James 1:22-24, 2 Timothy 3:7, Matthew 28:19-20, Hebrews 5:12-14, and Psalm 119:11, 105

The consistent message resonating throughout Scripture underscores a fundamental truth: true success, genuine spiritual growth, and effective discipleship hinge on obedience to the Word of God. God emphasizes this to Joshua, not as a mere suggestion, but as the key to unlocking the Promised Land and fulfilling His divine purpose. James, in his epistle, reinforces this concept by reminding us that we are not intended to be mere hearers of the Word, passively absorbing information. Instead, we are called to be doers, actively translating biblical principles into tangible actions, transforming our thoughts, behaviours, and interactions with the world around us. The apostle Paul cautions against the pitfall of perpetual learning without practical application. He warns about individuals who are constantly accumulating knowledge but fail to integrate it into their lives, remaining immature in their faith. They are like overflowing vessels, filled with knowledge yet unable to release its transformative power through their actions. The book of Hebrews further illuminates this point, highlighting the disappointing reality of those who, despite receiving ample spiritual nourishment, remain underdeveloped in their faith. They should have matured into teachers, guiding others along the path of spiritual growth. However, they remain in a state of perpetual infancy, unable to effectively apply the principles they have learned. This underscores the critical difference between knowing the Word and living the Word. Even Jesus Christ, the ultimate embodiment of obedience, explicitly commissioned His followers to not only preach the gospel, but also to teach new believers to obey everything He commanded. This ‘Great Commission’, as it’s commonly known, is a mandate to actively disciple others, guiding them towards a life of obedience and adherence to Christ’s teachings. Jesus emphasizes the importance of baptism and the necessity of consistent teaching to instill a deep understanding of God’s commands. Therefore, when we approach the Bible, we should not simply read for information or intellectual stimulation. We should prayerfully engage with the text, actively seeking God’s guidance on how to translate the words into practical action. We must ask ourselves, “How can I apply this principle to my daily life? How can I embody this teaching in my relationships, my work, and my decisions?” Our goal should not merely be to know His Word, but to live by His Word, to allow it to permeate every facet of our being. We want to make decisions aligned with His principles, grounded in His truth, and guided by His wisdom. As the Psalmist prayed, we desire to hide God’s Word in our hearts, so that we might not sin against Him, allowing it to act as a constant compass guiding us towards righteousness and obedience.

Psalm 119:105 beautifully captures a deep longing to connect with and be transformed by the Word of God. It speaks of seeing the Bible not just as a book, but as a guiding light, illuminating every step of life’s journey. “It’s a lamp onto my feet and a light onto my path,” the verse declares, underscoring the practical guidance and clarity Scripture offers. It’s more than mere knowledge; it’s a roadmap for navigating the complexities of life with faith and purpose. Like the Psalmist, we yearn to internalize Scripture, “hiding” it within our hearts as a safeguard against sin, recognizing it as a guiding lamp illuminating our steps and a radiant light illuminating our way forward. This deep yearning translates into a rich and varied interaction with Scripture. We are called to cherish God’s Word, holding it in high esteem and recognizing its inherent value. This appreciation then draws us into quiet reflection; we should diligently think about God’s Word and saturate our understanding with prayer. We want to make decisions based on His Word, aligning our actions with its teachings. The natural overflow of this transformed life is a desire to share this transformative truth; we want to preach and teach His Word, spreading its message of hope and salvation to others. We long for God’s Word to be woven into the very fabric of our being, residing both on our lips and deep within our hearts, a constant reminder of God’s presence and purpose.

As Pastor Eric eloquently pointed out, the Christian understanding of meditation stands in stark contrast to worldly practices. The world often encourages us to empty our minds. Christian meditation, however, is about intentional filling of our minds. We are called to fill our minds with the richness and wisdom of God’s Word, allowing it to take root and flourish within us. This isn’t just about passively going through the Bible. It’s about actively letting the Bible go through us, permeating our thoughts and shaping our actions. So, reading four chapters of Scripture is a stepping stone toward tangible application. The key is to ask “What am I learning from this passage, and how can I actively do something with it?” This active engagement with the Word is a means to a greater purpose: bearing fruit. We are called to be fruitful followers of Christ, and our engagement with the Bible is the fertile ground from which that fruit springs.

Pastor Eric leaned slightly forward, his eyes scanning the faces in the pews, connecting with each individual as he spoke. “So,” he began, “if you are like me, and I suspect many of you are, if you feel that stirring within, that deep-seated desire to keep moving forward, to align yourself with the unfolding plans of God, then there’s something you need to understand. You are going to need to rise up.” He paused, letting the weight of those words sink in. “Maybe, just maybe, you’ve dwelt in the past long enough. Perhaps it was a good past, filled with fond memories and accomplishments that you cherish. Or perhaps it was a bad past, laden with regrets, heartaches, and experiences you’d rather forget. Either way, you need to rise up, because God wants to do something new in you. He wants to work through you in ways you can’t even imagine yet.” He painted a vivid picture with his words, drawing on a familiar and powerful image. “You are about to cross over to the Promised Land, but there is something that you need to let go of, something that is holding you back, tethering you to the shore when God is calling you to sail. It could be fear, doubt, resentment, old habits, or even the comfort of the familiar. Whatever it is,” he urged, “identify it, acknowledge it, and release it.” He continued, “You need to trust God, to lean into Him with unwavering faith. Seek His presence like never before. Immerse yourselves in prayer, meditate on His Word, and actively plan to practice His Word in your daily life, because when we do that, then you will be prosperous and successful. He referenced the powerful verse, Joshua 1:8, we mentioned earlier, a timeless promise of prosperity and success for those who diligently follow God’s Word. Pastor Eric then turned to focus back on the congregation, “I believe that by doing this, by embracing this call to rise up and to release what holds us back, we will cross over into the land, into the promises that God has specifically designed for our lives, for our church, and for our community. He has a vision for us, a future filled with hope and purpose, and it’s waiting for us just on the other side of our Jordan river.” He drew a parallel to the story of Joshua, “God was about to raise Joshua to a higher level of influence, entrusting him with the leadership of an entire nation. And I believe that God wants to raise somebody’s influence here today. He wants to empower you to make a greater impact, to be a beacon of light in a world that desperately needs it. Remember this,” he concluded, “influence starts with people, not platforms. It starts with the relationships you build, the lives you touch, and the love you share. So, rise up, let go, and step into the fullness of what God has planned for you.”

Don’t let the absence of a title hold you back from influencing the world around you. We often equate leadership and impact with official positions – CEO, manager, pastor, president. But the truth is, influence is not based on a title. You don’t need a title to influence. There are some people with impressive titles who wield absolutely no influence. They might occupy positions of authority, but they lack the connection that inspires others to follow. Conversely, there are some people who influence powerfully and profoundly, even without a title. They are the everyday heroes, the quiet encouragers, the individuals who lead through empathy, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to God.

Read John 4:1-42

Consider the story in John 4. Remember the Samaritan woman at the well? Jesus met with this woman, a woman burdened by a past marked by five husbands and currently living with a man who was not her husband. She was searching, desperately trying to find satisfaction and fulfillment – trying to find water in the wells of this world and trying to quench a thirst that she had that only Jesus could quench. Her life was a testament to unfulfilled longing, a constant search for validation in all the wrong places. But then, after just one encounter with Jesus, everything changed. She becomes an evangelist, not by theological training, but by the sheer force of her changed life. She goes back to her village and she brings an entire village to Christ. Consider the magnitude of this. She was an outcast, a woman whispered about in the community, yet through her, a spiritual awakening was born. God used someone with no title, with no platform, to influence an entire village to come to Christ. He didn’t choose a respected pastor, a religious scholar, or a person of high social standing. He chose a woman with a complicated past, a woman who had been marginalized and dismissed. This highlights a profound truth: God often works through the unexpected, through those who the world deems unworthy. If God can use someone who is not a pastor, not a prophet, not some big Bible quiz answer person, not someone who has it all together; if He could use a Samaritan broken woman who just newly found the water of life, He can use you and I. We all have a story and experiences that can resonate with others and point them towards hope and healing. We might feel inadequate, ill-equipped, or unworthy, but God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.

“So”, Pastor Eric clarified. “God is going to use people, and you may not think that God should use you. You might be looking at your flaws, your past mistakes, your perceived limitations. You might be thinking, ‘I’m not eloquent enough; I’m not knowledgeable enough, I’m not old enough.’ But let me remind you that there are a lot of people in the Bible who didn’t think that God could use them. Moses stuttered and doubted his ability to speak to Pharaoh. Gideon questioned his own strength and his family’s insignificance. David was the youngest, overlooked shepherd boy. Even the apostle Paul was once a persecutor of Christians. Yet, God used each of them powerfully, not in spite of their weaknesses, but sometimes precisely because of them. Their vulnerability and reliance on God became their greatest strength. So, embrace your story, lean into your faith, and open yourself up to the possibility that God can use you, right where you are, to make a difference in the lives of others.”

Pastor Eric paused, his eyes sweeping over the congregation. His voice now held a sharper edge of challenge. “You know”, he said, as he walked to the left of the pulpit, “Christians have let their light shine throughout history. It’s not just a warm feeling, a Sunday smile; it’s an active force, a beacon pushing back the darkness. He moved back to the pulpit, a fire igniting his gaze. “Did you know that Christians, motivated by their faith and a desire to alleviate suffering, were behind some of the first hospitals? Driven by compassion, they sought to heal the sick and wounded, providing care where none existed before. And it wasn’t just rudimentary care; they were at the forefront of some of the first big medical breakthroughs, pushing the boundaries of medical knowledge and pioneering new treatments. They understood that caring for the body was an act of faith, a reflection of God’s love for humanity.” He continued, his voice gaining momentum. “Think about the origins of the nursing profession. Who do you think dedicated themselves to the arduous task of caring for the sick? Christians! They established some of the first nursing professions, creating a system of structured care and compassion. They went on to establish nursing schools, formalizing the training and ensuring that future generations of caregivers would be equipped with the knowledge and skills to minister to the sick with both competence and empathy.” He paused, letting his words sink in. “And what about education? Look at the historical record! Christians were instrumental in creating some of the first education systems, recognizing the power of knowledge to uplift and empower. They believed that education was not just about acquiring skills, but about cultivating wisdom, shaping character, and understanding the world around us through a lens of faith. They even founded some of the first universities dedicated to the pursuit of truth and the advancement of knowledge across a multitude of disciplines.” Pastor Eric stepped back from the pulpit, his voice softening. “A lot of them let their light shine through the times, through periods of darkness and uncertainty, of persecution and hardship. They didn’t just talk about their faith; they lived it, embodying the teachings of Christ in their actions and their service to others.” He stepped forward again, his eyes fixed on the congregation. “My question today is ‘Will you?’ ‘Will we?’ Will New Beginning Church let its light shine, or will we allow it to be extinguished by complacency and fear?” To illustrate his point, Pastor Eric shifted gears, drawing a seemingly unrelated anecdote from American history. “In the 1940s, during the tumultuous years of World War II, the US government invested a staggering 80 million dollars – a monumental sum at the time – to build the S.S. United States. This magnificent vessel, conceived in the shadow of conflict, was designed as a troop carrier, a vital artery for transporting soldiers across the vast Atlantic.” He continued, painting a vivid picture. “It was specifically designed to transport 15,000 soldiers. By 1952, it had become a marvel of engineering, the fastest troop carrier in the world, a symbol of American ingenuity and military might. This ship was able to travel over 16,000 kms at an astonishing 81 kms per hour, a speed that defied the limitations of its time.” Pastor Eric lowered his voice, a note of irony creeping in. “But despite its grand military purpose, its meticulously planned design, and the vast resources poured into its creation, the S.S. United States never actually carried any troops into battle. It sat, a powerful machine primed for war, but forever sidelined. It was briefly on standby during the Cuban Missile Crisis, a tense moment when the world teetered on the brink of nuclear war, but even then, it was never deployed, its potential unrealized.” “Instead”, he continued, “it was sold, its military purpose abandoned, and converted into a luxury cruise liner, catering to a mere 2,000 passengers, a far cry for the 15,000 soldiers it was originally intended to carry.” His voice dropped to a near whisper. “But the story doesn’t end there. By the 1990s, the S.S. United States, once a symbol of American pride and technological prowess, had fallen into disrepair, its gleaning hull succumbing to the relentless forces of nature. It began to rust in a Philadelphia shipyard, a forgotten giant languishing in neglect for over 25 years, a stark reminder of wasted potential. It became useless, a monument to good intentions that never made a lasting impact, a powerful ship rendered powerless by inaction.” He paused, letting the weight of the story settle over the congregation. “Don’t let New Beginning Church become the next S.S. United States,” he pleaded. “Don’t let our faith, our talents and our resources, sit idly by, rusting in the shipyard of indifference. Let us let our light shine, actively, intentionally, brightly, for the glory of God and the betterment of the world.”

Pastor Eric went on to say, “The thought of losing my purpose, of becoming stagnant, useless thing within God’s grand design, chills me to the bone. To imagine the Church, or even myself as an individual, failing to deploy, failing to advance towards the realization of God’s plan, is a terrifying prospect. It’s like being salt that has lost its savour, utterly devoid of its purpose and unable to season the world around it. Worse still, it’s like a light, a beacon meant to pierce the darkness, flickering and dying, leaving the path ahead shrouded in shadows. And I refuse to let that be my fate. I refuse to become a footnote in the story of faith, a forgotten vessel left to decay. I crave to be an active participant in God’s vibrant activity, a willing instrument in His divine orchestra. I yearn to play my part, however small, in illuminating the world with the light He has entrusted to me. Perhaps I will never stand on a global stage, captivating audiences with the power and eloquence of Billy Graham. Perhaps I will never reach the heights of spiritual leadership, achieving renown as a great man or woman of God, celebrated for my extraordinary works and unwavering faith. That’s not the point. The point is not to be someone else, but to be the best version of myself, guided by God’s hand.” He continued in the same line of thought. “My primary ambition, my unwavering commitment, is to remain linked to Jesus.  I will strive, with every fiber of my being, to ensure that I am constantly in His presence, seeking His guidance, and allowing His grace to flow through me. And I will be equally diligent in nurturing my relationship with the Holy Spirit, walking hand-in-hand with the divine breath of God, allowing Him to shape my thoughts, direct my actions, and empower me to fulfill His purpose. I will actively partner with Him as a valued collaborator in His magnificent project. I will dedicate myself to working alongside Him, understanding that my small contributions, when combined with His infinite power, can create ripples of profound impact. I will immerse myself in prayer, seeking His wisdom and discerning His will in every decision I make. I will study His Word, allowing its timeless truths to illuminate my path and guide my steps. And so, when I reach the twilight of my life, when I stand before Him, His assessment will not be one of comparison, one that measures me against the perceived achievements of others. He won’t say, ‘Why weren’t you more like Moses?’ or ‘Why weren’t you more like Heather, Hans, or Peter?’ Instead, I hope to hear, ‘You had the opportunity to go deeper.’ I want to be judged not with respect to my achievements, but on the depth of my devotion. ‘Did I fully embrace the potential He placed within me? Did I courageously follow His calling, even when it led me down unexpected paths? Did I truly let my light shine, however small, into the darkness of the world? That is the measure of success I aspire to, the legacy I long to leave behind. To have known Him, to have loved Him, and to have served Him with unwavering dedication – that is the ultimate purpose, and that is the path I choose to follow.

I see some of you here today, beautiful, faithful souls, and I know that God used you mightily in seasons past. Maybe you poured your heart and soul into a ministry, perhaps you led a small group, or maybe you simply lived a life of quiet service that radiated Christ’s love to everyone around you. And it was fruitful. It blossomed! You saw lives changed, hearts healed, and the Kingdom of God advance because of your dedication. But now… now things are different. Life has shifted. Maybe you’ve simply reached that point we call ‘retirement’. There is absolutely nothing wrong with retirement. It’s a well-deserved time of rest and reflection after years of hard work. But the question I want to ask to you today, the question I believe the Holy Spirit is whispering in your ear, is this: Is God truly calling you into full retirement from Him? Maybe, God is not finished with you yet. Maybe those years of experience, that accumulated wisdom, that deep-seated faith you’ve cultivated over a lifetime, are precisely what He needs now. Maybe He has a new assignment, a different field to cultivate, a fresh opportunity to shine His light in a world that desperately needs it. Don’t let the world’s definition of ‘done’ dictate what God can still do through you. So, don’t give up on God. Don’t assume your usefulness has expired. He’s not finished! As long as you have breath, as long as your heart beats within your chest, He is not finished! He still has a purpose, a plan, a destiny for you to fulfill.”

In closing, Pastor Eric said, “I look around this church today, and I see potential, I see strength. How many Joshuas are there in this church? How many of you, like Joshua, are ready to step up, to take hold of God’s promises, to lead others into a new season of faith and victory? If you are a Joshua, if you feel that stirring in your heart, that undeniable pull to do more, to be more…rise up! Rise up and declare, ‘God, I am available. Use me again!’ Don’t let fear, doubt, or complacency hold you back. The harvest is plentiful, and the labourers are few. Be a Joshua! Be a leader! Be a beacon of hope! Rise up!”

Watch the video here: