The children of Israel faced what seemed to be a severe crisis. Moses, their leader, had just died. What would they do? Who would lead them? Would they now perish in the wilderness?

Of course not! Although Moses had died, God certainly was not dead! He told the new leader, Joshua, exactly what to do next: “Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people” (Josh. 1:2). Then the Lord spoke these words of assurance to Joshua: “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and of good courage” (vv.5-6).

Yes, Moses was dead, but God was still alive. And His plans for the nation of Israel would go on.

What a comfort that is for us today! Even though troubling crises arise, great leaders fall, precious loved ones die, and all human help and comforts fail, God is not dead. He is always with us.

Are you weighed down with the cares of life—lonely, discouraged, and despondent? Remember, our trust is in the living God. As He was with Moses, Joshua, and the children of Israel, so He is with us. Look to Him today for guidance, and experience His abiding peace.

  — Richard De Haan