This summer I worked at Ewalu Bible Camp in Strawberry Point, Iowa. During our musical each week, we would sing a song called “Be Bold.” The lyrics were “Be bold, be strong, for the Lord thy God is with you.” This song is based on the scripture Joshua 1:9, which says "I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” The Lord gives Joshua this message when he is commissioned after Moses’ death.
As I told some of you last Sunday, I have moved a lot in the last three years. I have lived in Ohio, Wisconsin, and Iowa. At times, it has been hard because there have been so many life transitions, but it also has been rewarding because of all the great experiences and people I have gotten the chance to meet along the way.
This summer “Be Bold” was one of the many songs in the musical I grew to love. I was reminded of it again this Sunday at the blessing of the backpacks when I read the verse on the backpack from Psalm 139:7 that says, “Everywhere I go, I go with you.” God going with us is hard to believe at times, but God’s word reminds us of it over and over.
No matter where we are in this big world, no matter what we are feeling or experiencing, God goes with us. Knowing that God goes with me has brought me a lot of comfort these last three years as I have made so many different moves. I have been reminded that we do not have to be bold and strong on our own, we have each other to lean on, especially when it gets difficult, and we need support. To see so many people at Lord of Life surrounding me in love, prayers, and support as I make my transition to West Chester is a reminder of how God is with us and gives us strength and boldness.
I pray that wherever you are in life's journey, you are reminded of God's presence. How is God helping you to be bold and strong?
Be Bold,
Pastor Nicole