Written By: David Nehrig | CSUS National Director
Photo By: Joshua Ramirez

As we are nearing the end of the school year and heading into summer, I find myself lying in bed early in the morning thinking about the summer surf trip. I can’t help but dream of that perfect day – warm water, glassy, not too crowded, and of course, the wife on the beach catching all the clips.

The heart starts racing a little, the mind wanders off, and the list of things I still need to get done continues to grow. I pick up warm water wax, check out travel insurance, and make sure we have the hotel booked. Do we have a ride from the airport to the hotel? Where will we surf first? The list goes on and on.

I have committed to reading through the entire Old Testament this year. I have just finished the book of Joshua and entered into Judges. The journey the Israelites went on is so incredible to me. Talk about pre-trip jitters. Think about what it would be like if you were a grom and your parents said, “We are leaving tomorrow. Pack what you can, we will not be coming back.” Then, on the trip, you see all the older generation die off, and you finally get to enter the Promised Land, which you have heard so much about.

As Joshua prepared to lead Israel into the Promised Land, God instructed him to be strong and courageous, promising His unwavering presence and support. God assured Joshua that no one would be able to stand against him and that He would never leave or forsake him, just as He had been with Moses. God also commanded Joshua to diligently study and meditate on the law of Moses, and to keep it in mind. This would ensure success in leading the people into and settling the land.

I love this verse:  “Then the LORD said to Joshua, ‘Don’t be afraid; don’t give up. Lead all your fighting men to Ai. I will help you defeat the king of Ai” (Joshua 8:1-23, ERV).

We don’t need to be afraid or worry. God is with us. He goes before us. Lord, help me rest in you. Help me be strong and courageous.