As I write this the press is involved in endless speculation about the speech which Ed Milliband will give today as the new leader of the opposition. The speech of his life they are calling it. So no pressure there then!

 

I am not so much interested in the politics as the humanity, what must it feel like about to step into this role with such high expectations and such enormous obstacles, exhilirating or just plain terrifying. I often think about Joshua in such situations, about to take over the job from Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites to the promised land. How must he have felt and what stopped him from turning and running?

 

In my life there have been moments which to me seemed just as scary, leaving for the US then leaving there to start all over again in England. Times when I have not felt up to the task and it is God's words to Joshua that ring in my head.

"Remember that I have commanded you to be determined and confident! Don't be afraid or discouraged, for I, the Lord your God, am with you wherever you go" Joshua 1 vs 9

I don't know where Mr Milliband will draw his strength but as for me I have depended on God  and he has taken me through it.