Reminders of God's Presence

Then the Lord said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Joshua 8:1

Reminders of God’s presence with us can be helpful when we face difficult challenges. A Bible verse displayed in our homes, a stunning picture of God’s creation, a cross necklace: These things don’t provide assistance, but God can use them to remind us of His promised presence and power.

In the Bible, God has given us physical reminders of His love and grace. As the Israelites faced the challenges of the wilderness journey, “by day [God] led them with a pillar of cloud, and by night with a pillar of fire” (Nehemiah 9:12). Joshua’s holding out his spear reminded the Israelites God was leading them in battle (Joshua 8:18, 26). In the New Testament, Thomas refused to believe that Jesus was alive until he saw and touched His crucifixion wounds (John 20:24-29). The Lord’s Supper helps us remember Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). In our journey of faith, these physical reminders assure us that God is with us “always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

After entering Canaan, the Israelites needed God’s help in battle. After being defeated at the city of Ai due to their sin (Joshua 7:11-12), the Israelites were likely afraid to fight the city again. But God encouraged Joshua, “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (8:1). Then God told Joshua to “hold out toward Ai the javelin that is in your hand, for into your hand I will deliver the city” (v. 18). Joshua obeyed God and “did not draw back the hand that held out his javelin” until the battle was won (v. 26). It wasn’t the javelin in Joshua’s outstretched hand that secured the victory. Instead, it was a symbol of God’s promise to help them and be with them.

What reminds you of God’s presence? How does this reminder help you face challenging situations?

Heavenly Father, in the challenges I face today, please help me to remember Your presence with me.