“Getting Ready to Move” – Part 1 of the “Getting Ready” Series

Sermon Text: Joshua 1:1–11

Sermon Recap, January 4, 2025

In this sermon from the Getting Ready series, Pastor Williams reminded us that before God moves His people positionally, He first prepares them spiritually. Using Joshua 1:1–11, we are shown that movement with God requires clarity, courage, commitment, and faithfulness. Below are the three points from today’s sermon:

1. Understand the Plan (Joshua 1:1–4)

In verse 2, God tells Joshua, “Now therefore arise, go over this Jordan.” Pastor emphasized the urgency in the word “now”, making it clear that the time to move had arrived. God did not say “someday” or “when you feel ready,” but now arise.

Pastor also highlighted the phrase “this Jordan,” explaining that it implies there were Jordans before and that there would be Jordans ahead. Each season brings its own crossing. As we step into 2026, we should expect challenges to cross, but also trust that God will be present at every Jordan just as He was before.

Pastor further explained that God’s plan included prerequisites. Movement was not automatic. Joshua and the people were required to remain faithful to God and obedient to His Word. God’s promises were sure, but faithfulness was necessary for forward progress. Understanding God’s plan means understanding that obedience and faithfulness are part of the process.

2. Understand the Power (Joshua 1:5–9)

Pastor stressed that we will need God’s power in 2026 just as much as Israel needed it then. God repeatedly commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous—not because Joshua was strong on his own, but because God promised His presence.

The Children of Israel previously failed to understand and rely on God’s power, allowing fear and disobedience to delay them for forty years. Pastor reminded us that waiting on God’s power is not weakness—it is wisdom. Strength comes from obedience, courage flows from faith, and victory is found in God’s presence.

3. Understand the Prize (Joshua 1:10–11)

In verses 10–11, Joshua instructs the people to prepare themselves because movement was imminent. God had already promised the land, but preparation was required before possession.

Pastor reminded us that faith is active, not passive. God desires to bless His people, but He calls us to be prepared and faithful vessels, ready to receive what He has promised.

The message is clear: every season brings its own Jordan, and every year brings new challenges. But when we understand God’s plan, remain faithful to His prerequisites, rely on His power in 2026, and prepare for His promises, we are truly ready to move.

Journaling & Reflection Questions

1. What “Jordan” am I facing as I enter 2026, and how is God calling me to arise and move forward now?
2. How is God asking me to demonstrate faithfulness and obedience as part of His plan for my life?
3. In what areas do I need to rely more fully on God’s power rather than my own strength this year?
4. What steps of preparation is God leading me to take before moving into what He has promised?