Learn to Love the Shadows

- Pastor DJ Oquist

“The Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites at Rephidim. Moses told Joshua, “Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites. Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands.” - Exodus 17:8-9 (NIV)

We live in a result-driven world. It’s the outcome, the bottom line, that matters. If you aren’t making money, have the title, or have the picture-perfect relationship, then you aren’t making it in life. The problem is that it’s a consistently changing standard that, if chased, will always leave us feeling like where we currently are doesn’t matter.

This is one of the first times we see Joshua mentioned in scripture. We know Joshua as the leader of the Israelites who took them into the Promised Land—the same Joshua with a whole book written about him in the Bible. But here, he is known as Moses’ aide. Although he would lead the Israelites to victory, we don’t hear about him much until he takes over decades later.

Think about your hero; think about the person that you look up to the most. Think about your favorite athlete, celebrity, or personality. What age was that person when you discovered that person? That means there were years of development before you knew who they were.

Your most significant moments start in moments that no one sees.

Right now is a critical time in your life. You are developing, you are becoming, and no one sees you. I want to tell you today to love the shadows. Don’t compare yourself to what others have or where you want to be; take advantage of today. God is working out something on your behalf; it may take time, but He’s moving.

Make a Difference:

What is something that no one sees that you can continue to develop? If something comes to mind, consider this confirmation to love the shadows.

As You Read:

We are getting into Exodus this week. Joshua's early presence as Moses' aide reminds us that significant leaders often begin in unseen roles. Likewise, our journey to greatness usually starts in obscurity. Embrace the development process in the shadows, trusting that God is working out something significant in your life, even if it takes time to unfold.