Today is June 16

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from Joshua 23.

After a long time had passed and the LORD had given Israel rest from all their enemies around them, Joshua, by then a very old man, 2 summoned all Israel—their elders, leaders, judges and officials—and said to them: “I am very old. 3 You yourselves have seen everything the LORD your God has done to all these nations for your sake; it was the LORD your God who fought for you.

14 “Now I am about to go the way of all the earth. You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the LORD your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled; not one has failed.

Joshua, this scripture tells us, is a very old man who is preparing for his transition. He speaks to all of Israel words of consolation. He reminds them what they already know: God is faithful. Sometimes – oftentimes – being reminded of truth by one who goes before us is profoundly encouraging. Is there a sage in your life – someone older – who brings you great courage?

There are a few sages in my community who regularly send me notes of encouragement through the post, pray for me, or take me to lunch. My parents, as well, speak encouragement to me about who God is. This intentional presence in my life of sages is incredibly meaningful. Listen to the words of Joshua again. Imagine all he’s seen and done. Imagine his massive failures. Imagine the time God passed right in front of him! Imagine yourself, as a very old person – some might be closer to that than others - reflecting on everything the Lord has done for your sake...


Joshua says to them – and to us - : you know heart and soul that God’s good promises do not fail. But sometimes, it doesn’t feel like we know that! Sometimes, we need a word of courage to remember who God is, and all He’s done. As you end your time of prayer, remember some of God’s good promises to you, and see if you can find the sort of ‘heart and soul’ knowing Joshua talks about.

Music Credit:
Faithful One - Vineyard Worship (YouTube)