The Uncommon Life Daily Challenge from Tony DungySample

Potential--Lantern on the Stern

I suspect that the courage and insights which Joshua gained standing alongside Moses proved invaluable to him as he was tapped by God to succeed Moses in leading the Israelites. He had seen the experiences of Israel in the wilderness. I'm sure he benefited from the reservoir of research and experience not only for the knowledge he would need, but also for the confidence and courage he would have to muster as he focused his attention on the task before him.

The same is true in our lives too. Our experiences give us a reference point from which we can learn and grow. They may feel to us like yokes we can't escape from, dragging us down with regret and guilt. But they are really opportunities for growth. As with Joshua, they are an invaluable resource from which to draw confidence and courage for the task ahead.

Don't dwell on the past, but don't be afraid to examine it either.