The second most popular question for us at Joshua Expeditions – right after “What’s for dinner?” – is “Who is Joshua?” Many are able to figure out that it’s a reference to the Joshua of the Old Testament, but most don’t realize that there is a specific reason we chose this name. It’s not just because we thought it sounded cool. If that was the case, we’d have called ourselves “Obed-Edom Expeditions”! (Look him up!)

Joshua was a very important man who was introduced as a key figure in one of the most important events in the history of the nation of Israel. The book of Numbers, chapters 13 and 14, chronicles this event that shaped the destiny (for good and for bad) of two entire generations and gave a powerful example to God’s people for all time. The children of Israel were on the verge of entering the promised land, thereby fulfilling God’s promise made to Abraham over 500 years before. Prior to entering, the people were instructed by the Lord to spy on the land and see both the good things He had prepared for them and the obstacles they would face. The spies reported to Moses that they saw a land of milk and honey, grapes, and lush trees — a perfect place to live that would foster prosperity. But they also saw giants, people of war that “devoured the land’s inhabitants.” The spies thought of themselves to be as small as grasshoppers compared to them! The people spent that night crying in fear.

How often we take our eyes off what is good and focus instead on the obstacles in our way!

Not everyone had a spirit of fear and discouragement, however. Two men in particular believed and trusted in the Lord. It was Joshua and Caleb who told the people that they could enter into God’s promise by knowing that He would enable them to accomplish His calling in their lives. Under Joshua’s leadership, Israel went on to conquer the land, defeating army after army. Along the way, before heading into war, the Lord repeated the same words to Joshua three times: “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear, for I am with you!”

Doesn’t the Lord say this to us all as He sets His will for our lives before us? We should all remember that there is nothing we can’t accomplish with God on our side! (Philippians 4:13)

Student. Leader. Teacher. Parent. Regardless of who you are, do not fear but be BOLD, STRONG, and COURAGEOUS as you embark upon your life’s adventures!

Be a light to others for His glory as you complete His will for your life.