An answered prayer can feel like a finish line. The move is complete. The door has opened. The long season of waiting has ended. Then a new question emerges: what do we do now? Israel faced that question after crossing the Jordan. Joshua 5–6 shows that arriving in new territory prepared them for an assignment.
Let God prepare the people
Before Jericho, Israel paused at Gilgal. Covenant renewal and the Passover directed their attention back to the Lord. Their next step required a renewed heart as well as a strategy. We can ask the same searching question at the beginning of a new season: Lord, what do You want to form in us? Character, unity, prayer, and obedience matter as we prepare to serve.
Receive the assignment with humility
Joshua's encounter with the commander of the Lord's army interrupted his assumptions. He bowed and listened. We often approach an opportunity with a plan already in hand. Humility makes room to listen for God's direction and recognize the good work already happening around us. A church entering a community can honor other churches while seeking people who need the hope of Jesus.
Keep people at the center
Buildings and addresses serve a purpose, but the commission of Jesus directs us toward people. Matthew 28:18–20 calls His followers to make disciples. The mission becomes tangible when we welcome a neighbor, disciple a young believer, pray with someone who is hurting, or serve a family in need. A new opportunity becomes fruitful through faithful love.
Your next step
Read Joshua 5:13–15 and Matthew 28:18–20. Identify one person you can serve this week. Choose a specific action, make time for it, and ask God to shape your heart as you follow through.
Prayer
Jesus, thank You for bringing me forward. Keep me humble, attentive, and willing to serve. Help me see the people You have placed before me and carry Your love into this new season. Amen.
Adapted from Pastor Niel Petersen’s teaching, GO FORWARD - PART 3 | Forward Into the Mission.
