“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 to the left, so that you will have success wherever you go. This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite it day and night, so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do. Have I not commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:7–9
No matter where we are in the coaching ranks of our team or sport, there are times when we are called upon to step up to the next level. This call can be both a source of excitement and great fear. Will I succeed in this new challenge? Will I lead the team to a winning season? Will God be glorified if I accept this new position?
Joshua surely asked questions like these and many more besides. He was a faithful man, a type of assistant coach over the Israelites under the direction of Moses. When Moses died, Joshua had to step up and lead God’s people. Needless to say, this was a daunting challenge because the Promised Land was yet to be conquered. So God eased his fears with some encouraging commands.
Many times in our profession we are faced with big games and job opportunities. These situations can bring fear into our lives, but we must be ready to step up. God reminds us to be strong, to do what the Bible tells us, and to meditate on His Word day and night. If we do this, God says, we will prosper and succeed.
1. Are you a coach who is ready to step up when God makes known His plans for you?
2. When God presents an opportunity to you, do you turn to Him for the strength to proceed?
Extra Reading: Deuteronomy 31:6–8
Lord Jesus, I pray that You will ease my heart and mind of any doubts or fears I may have about Your plan for my life. I pray that when given the opportunity to lead, I will lead in a way that glorifies You. Amen.
