This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will achieve success. (Joshua 1:8, NASB)
1996 will always be one of the great moments in US Open history. Steve Jones and Tom Lehman were tied walking off the last tee at Oakland Hills. What must these two good friends have been thinking? They both desperately wanted to win but both could not. In an astounding example of focus and clear thinking, Tom drew close to Steve as they walked down the 72nd hole, and Tom exclaimed these amazing words, “Remember Joshua 1:8. ‘Be strong and courageous!’”
Are you kidding me?
Tom received an unlucky break on that last hole, and Steve won. If you read the rest of the story, you will know that Tom won the Open Championship in Scotland a month later. In my humble opinion, I believe both won, because they both knew then and now know that their ultimate focus is on more than a trophy. They both continue to meditate on God’s Law and therefore are prosperous and successful. They have learned to focus in the midst of the battle.
I was faced with what seemed like a difficult dilemma recently, and all I could see were uphill battles and loss. I tried to slow down and focus on peace and the words of Isaiah: You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal (Isaiah 26:3-4, NIV).
I was quiet and listened. A day later, I sensed God answer, “Be still, and speak little. Let the water flow beneath the bridge. Remember, people have done this for you in the past. Give it to Me. I have the answer.”
May God do some meddling with us today because he knows where we need help. He also knows our unique challenges, so invite him into the confusion and trials that will lead to triumph. It is never easy to change your thoughts and have that noble attitude. We know from experience that we can never do this alone. We will be attacked, this is assured. We serve a God of clarity and assurance. How do we know? Because he said so! It’s all true.
I end with an appropriate quote from our friend, Jeff Hopper:
Jesus was saying that a life adherent to him is a life free not of difficulty, concern, or pain. Rather, it is a life without confusion. It is a life where the way before us is clear. When we come out from under the weight of the world and live instead under the shadow of the Almighty, he governs us by his wisdom and guides us by his Spirit.
Closing Prayer – Lord, thank you in advance for making your way so clear.