READ: Joshua 1:1-9

We often want Joshua’s “Promised Land” success without walking through Joshua’s hidden years. But before Joshua became a conquering leader, he first became a man of God’s presence.

The key verse is Philippians 1:6 - God is the One who starts, continues, and finishes the good work within us. Our spiritual journey is not an accident; God is always the starter.

Two experiences that shaped Joshua’s life:

1. THE HIDDEN YEARS

In Exodus 33:11, Joshua stayed in the Tent of Meeting even after Moses left. While others returned to daily life, Joshua stayed longer in God’s presence. Before Joshua ever stood before cities, he knelt before God.

The hidden years are the seasons when nothing feels big, when ministry is limited, when life feels slow - but these are the seasons when God is shaping us the most. Just like running a marathon begins with 1KM runs, big calling begin with small, faithful steps.

2. THE EYES OF FAITH

In Numbers 14, twelve spies saw the same land. Ten saw giants and fear. Two - Joshua and Caleb - saw God’s promises.

Same situation. Different perspective.

Joshua could see with eyes of faith because he had learned to stay in God’s presence. Faith grows in hidden places. That is how we move from fear to trust, from grasshopper thinking to God-sized vision.

What has God begun in you? Let Him start His work - and trust Him to finish it.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1.Where in your life do you feel like you are in a “hidden season” right now? How does that make you feel - frustrated, confused, hopeful?
2.Joshua stayed in the Tent after everyone else left. What would it look like for you this week to “stay a little longer” in the presence of God?
3.Like the twelve spies, we often face the same problems but see them differently. What is one situation in your life where you are tempted to focus on the “giants” instead of God’s promises?
4.What is one small step God may be asking you to take right now - even if it feels insignificant?
5.Philippians 1:6 says God will finish what He started in you. Which area of your life do you most need to trust God with instead of trying to control it yourself?

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