soul journey 
Deuteronomy 31:8 declares: “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” These words, spoken to Joshua as he prepared to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, are just as relevant today. The truth that God Himself goes before us is a powerful reminder that we do not face the unknown alone. He is already at work in the places we are heading, preparing the way, opening doors, and equipping us for the journey ahead. When this truth takes root in our hearts, fear loses its grip, and faith begins to grow.
Laying Your Plans Before God
The first way to live in this truth is by submitting your plans to the Lord. Proverbs 16:3 teaches us, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” When we prayerfully place our goals, hopes, and even our worries before God, we acknowledge that His wisdom is greater than ours. This act of surrender is the first step in experiencing His guidance.
Waiting for the Guidance of the Holy Spirit
Walking in God’s will requires patience and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised, “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13). Instead of rushing ahead in our own strength, we learn to wait and listen. Sometimes His direction comes through Scripture, sometimes through peace in our spirit, and sometimes through circumstances He arranges.
Walking with the Lord in Prayer
Prayer is the heartbeat of walking with God. Philippians 4:6 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Through prayer, we not only bring our needs to Him but also align our hearts with His will. It is in the quiet moments of prayer that we are reminded He has already gone before us, and we are never alone.
Trusting Him Completely
Trust is the foundation of faith. Isaiah 41:10 assures us, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” To trust God completely means releasing our fears, doubts, and timelines, and resting in the confidence that His plans are good and His presence is constant.
Living in the Promise of His Presence
To grasp this truth fully, we must remind ourselves daily that God is both ahead of us and beside us. Journaling His faithfulness, meditating on His promises, and surrounding ourselves with a community of faith can help us hold fast when challenges come. When fear whispers, “You can’t,” God’s Word answers, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Final Thought
Deuteronomy 31:8 is more than a verse to memorize—it is a truth to live by. God goes before you, He walks beside you, and He never leaves your side. As you commit your plans to Him, wait on the Holy Spirit, walk faithfully in prayer, and trust Him with your whole heart, you will discover a peace and strength that cannot be shaken. Whatever lies ahead, you can step forward with courage, knowing the Lord has already gone before you.
