“So Joshua overcame…” (Exodus 17:13)

Presented with the sermon series theme Soar, I couldn’t help thinking of those virtual flights where a simulator lifts riders off their feet, higher and higher off the ground, toward a big wrap-around screen. The projections make them feel like they’re flying over stunning landscapes they would never experience in the same way on the ground. Perhaps you’ve ridden one of these: Soarin’ at Walt Disney parks or FlyOver Iceland! in Reykjavik. 

Those riders need help to soar. Spiritually speaking, it’s no shame to admit that we too need help to soar above our everyday circumstances and earth-bound outlook. Sometimes that help comes from developing, over the long haul, consistent private devotional habits, so we’re already prepared when the time comes to soar (Daniel’s courage in the lions’ den came from exactly that). Sometimes that help comes through a direct prayer request for immediate assistance (Solomon, overwhelmed by the multitude of people he was to govern, prayed specifically for wisdom and discernment). Sometimes, though, we need help from others, as when machines and employees help those flight simulator patrons soar.

Charged by Moses to fight, Joshua receives Moses' promise that he’ll hold “high on a hill” (v.9b) the staff representing God’s authority, the staff that parted the Red Sea and caused water to gush from the rock (17:5-6). This staff of God aids them in soaring over the enemy because it’s a visible - and external - reminder of God’s power and authority. The Israelite army wins (v.11) as long as that staff is visible.

But Moses needs help, too. Those in ministry (and that’s all of us!) can grow weary. Arms grow tired. Sometimes, we need help from others to stay in the battle if we ever hope to soar. Aaron and Hur provided a stone for Moses to sit on and kept his arms elevated (v.12). 

Maybe your small group friend doesn’t need help soaring right now, but she sees that you do. While she might not lift you off your feet literally or hold up your arms, she can encourage you to sit (v.12) so you will be refreshed or offer to watch your toddler so you can “remain steady” (v.12) after a discouraging week. Your prayer journal can remind you of times in your past when God provided, answered, or encouraged. Let those memories be the staff for you that Moses held high for the soldiers. Let that friend and those memories begin to lift you above those circumstances that looked so dire from down below. 

With apologies to Joe Cocker, with a little help from your friends, you’ll do more than get by. You can soar. What’s happening in your life right now that’s keeping you grounded? What friend could you ask to come alongside you, what provision of God in your recent past could you look toward to raise your eyes above those circumstances?