Following God even when you are in doubt is difficult. Oftentimes we get caught up in the uncertainty of our future forgetting who is ultimately in charge. After Moses died Joshua was immediately made Commander in Chief of all the Israelites. A responsibility that required leading God's chosen people to the Promised Land.

When Joshua takes his new position God immediately instructs him three times to "Be strong and courageous," as he leads God's people into battle. Joshua must blindly follow God despite the uncertainty of his future. Not only must Joshua remain unwavering in his faith as the Israelites fight their adversaries, but also he must stay diligent in conquering the temptations that come along the way--after-all he is looked upon as their leader.

God commands Joshua's dependence on Him alone. He must be "confident beyond reason," as we say in the FCA Creed, that God will provide a way for them succeed. He must also trust that the safety of his people remains secure in God's hands.

As Christ followers, God calls all of us to be "strong and courageous" despite challenging circumstances. Jesus even calls His followers to "take up (their) cross and follow (Him)." The cross involves crucifixion--a painful, difficult death.

As a soccer coach, my 11-year old girls often don't understand why we run and do exhausting drills in practice. What my 6th graders can't see is that those difficult practices provide us with the skills and endurance we need to win our games.

God knows exactly what it's going to take for us to get a win as Christ followers. God has a reason for our hardships. But it's our responsibility to trust in His sovereignty, so we can accomplish what He's made us for and ultimately lead His people.