My friend Ralph had the thrilling experience of going on a short cruise on the aircraft carrier USS Kennedy. He saw jet fighters take off, land, and demonstrate maneuvers. He was told that whenever the planes are taking off or landing—dangerous operations—the captain watches from the bridge. Even if the planes are flying continually, he stays on the bridge, cat-napping between runs if necessary. So each time a pilot takes off or lands on the deck, he knows that his captain is always on duty.
In today's Scripture reading, when it was time for Joshua to take over as leader of Israel, he needed reassurance that God would be with him as He had been with Moses. The Israelites knew that Moses had divine direction during their wilderness journey because God led them by a pillar of fire and a cloud.
But what about Joshua? God promised him, "As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you" (Joshua 1:5). Joshua could lead Israel with the absolute confidence that God was always watching over him.
Wherever we are, whatever bold endeavor we are involved in, or whatever spiritual battle we may face, we have the confidence that God is with us. What's more, He guides, protects, and leads us. He's always on the bridge! — David C. Egner
I trust in God—I know He cares for me,
On mountain bleak or on the stormy sea;
Though billows roll, He keeps my soul—
My heavenly Father watches over me. —Martin
© 1938, The Rodeheaver Co.
The Christian finds safety not in the absence of danger but in the presence of God.