Do Whatever He Tells You

My first memory as a little boy speaking in a church service came during a moment when the pastor asked for folks to share their favorite verse. I only had one verse put to memory at that time, taught to me by my mom. In order to be seen and heard, my dad picked me up to stand on the pew. With my dad’s arm around me, I shared John 2:5…"His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.” (KJV)

In the NLT translation, it reads, "Do whatever He tells you".

I don’t remember how old I was at the time but this verse has had a profound influence in my life.

When Joshua stepped into leadership after Moses, the task before him was overwhelming. He was called to lead Israel into the Promised Land... a place full of God’s promises but also full of challenges. In that moment, God spoke words that are as relevant to us today as they were to Joshua: “I will not leave you or forsake you. Be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:3–5, 6, 7, 9).

This passage not only reveals God’s promises but also answers two life-shaping prayers:

• “Lord, what do You want me to know?”

• “Lord, what do You want me to do?”

What Do You Want Me to Know?

From verses 3–5, God makes it clear what Joshua... and we... need to know:

• God has already gone before us. “Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you…”

• No obstacle can ultimately stand in God’s way. “No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life…”

• His presence is unshakable. “I will not leave you nor forsake you.”

This is what God wants us to know: His promises are sure, His presence is constant, and His power is greater than anything we face. Before we can move forward in faith, we must stand on this foundation.

What Do You Want Me to Do?

Then comes the action. God doesn’t just fill our minds with truth—He calls us to live it out. Three times He commands Joshua: “Be strong and courageous” (verses 6, 7, 9).

• Be strong and courageous to step into your calling. Joshua had to lead the people into their inheritance.

• Be strong and courageous to obey God’s Word. Courage is not just about facing enemies but about staying faithful to God’s ways.

• Be strong and courageous because God is with you. Fear loses its power when we remember His presence.

This is what God wants us to do: move forward with strength and courage, not because we feel capable, but because we know He is faithful.

Living This Out

Each day, I've purposed to pray these two questions:

1. “Lord, what do You want me to know?” → His promises, His presence, His faithfulness.

2. “Lord, what do You want me to do?” → Step out in courage, walk in obedience, and trust Him with the results.

When I live from this rhythm—knowing and doing—I align myself with the God who never fails. But honestly? I struggle with the "do whatever He tells you" part. He tells me, "Do not fear', but it's a daily, moment by moment choice for me NOT to fear. That's probably why we find in scripture some sort of "fear not" reference 365 times! One for each day... go figure...

I just realized, as I am writing this, He gives us the power and strength to do the "do whatever He tells you" part. He never expects us to do this in our own strength. He's looking for total dependancy on Him for everything... even the "doing" part.

Takeaway:

God’s promises give us confidence, and His presence gives us courage. If you ask Him what to know, He will remind you of His truth. If you ask Him what to do, He will empower you to walk it out.

In His strength... "Do Whatever he Tells You."