Rising Up as Trailblazers: Embracing God's Call for New Paths

The following article is adapted from the sermon titled "Groundbreakers" by Apostle General Jannie Ngwale.

Introduction

As believers, we often find ourselves standing at the threshold of change, uncertain and hesitant to step into new territories. In the sermon, the speaker challenges us to rise as trailblazers, groundbreakers, and pioneers. Drawing from the journey of the Israelites in Joshua 3:4, we are reminded that "You have not passed this way before." This call to action requires faith, courage, and the willingness to embrace the unknown, trusting that God will guide our steps as He has promised. This article unpacks the key messages of this sermon, highlighting how we can navigate unfamiliar paths with confidence and reliance on God.

Stepping into the Unknown

In Joshua 3, the Israelites are poised to enter the Promised Land after 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. They had become familiar with the land around the River Jordan, but God calls them to move forward and possess the promises He made to their ancestors. The river was overflowing, a clear barrier to their progress, yet God commanded them to enter the water.

The lesson here is clear: God often calls us to step into the unknown and take a leap of faith even when unsure of the outcome. The Israelites had never crossed the Jordan before, but God assured them that His promises would be true. Similarly, we are often called to move into unfamiliar territories—whether in our spiritual life, career, or personal journey. In these moments of uncertainty, God's power is most evident. As the verse states, "For you have not passed this way before" (Joshua 3:4).

Becoming a Trailblazer: Embracing the Role of a Pioneer

The sermon challenges us to see ourselves as trailblazers, those who forge new paths not just for our benefit but for the generations to come. Trailblazers are groundbreakers, willing to step into places others fear, creating new opportunities for others to follow. In doing so, they are concerned with their personal success and building a better world for others.

Jesus was the ultimate trailblazer, leading the way for salvation through His death and resurrection. In the same way, we are called to follow His example by stepping out in faith, trusting that God is guiding our every step. As the speaker reminds us, "Trailblazers are not concerned about themselves; they are concerned about others."

Overcoming Familiarity

One of the greatest challenges in our spiritual journey is the temptation to become comfortable in the familiar. After spending years encamped near the River Jordan, the Israelites had become accustomed to their surroundings. They may have even started settling, thinking this was their final destination. But God had more for them. He called them to move forward, to step into the unknown and claim the promises waiting on the other side.

In our lives, we can fall into the same trap of comfort. We may settle for the status quo, thinking that we have arrived because we have achieved some measure of success. However, the speaker states, "What you have seen so far must not encamp your vision." God's plans for us go beyond what we have already achieved. He is calling us to rise higher, to pursue the greater purpose He has in store for us. As Isaiah 43:19 reminds us, "Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?"

Facing Setbacks with Faith

The story of Joseph, as recounted in Genesis 37-50, is a powerful example of how setbacks can be stepping stones to God's ultimate plan. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused by Potiphar's wife, and thrown into prison. Yet through all these trials, Joseph remained faithful to God, using his talents and gifts to serve others, even amid his suffering.

The speaker draws a parallel between Joseph's journey and our setbacks. When we face obstacles or challenges, it is easy to become discouraged and question God's plan. However, we are reminded that God is always at work, even in the midst of our difficulties. Joseph's faithfulness led to his elevation as the second-in-command of Egypt, a position he could never have imagined during his darkest moments.

Ephesians 3:20 tells us that God can "do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us." Like Joseph, we must trust that God's plans for us are greater than we can imagine and that our current setbacks are merely preparation for future blessings.

Breaking Ground

The sermon speaks to the power of being the first—breaking new ground not just for yourself but for your family and community. The Israelites stepping into the River Jordan were the first to experience God's miraculous provision at that moment. Similarly, God may call you the first in your family or community to step into a new season of breakthrough.

This is not always easy. As the speaker mentions, "To be a pioneer is to oppose the status quo." You may face opposition, doubt, or even isolation from those around you. But as you walk in faith, trusting in God's guidance, you will pave the way for others to follow. The ground you break today will be the foundation for future generations to build upon.

Dreaming Beyond the Present

In a powerful moment, the speaker challenges us to use our imagination as a tool for faith. He encourages us to close our eyes and envision what God has in store for our future. Too often, we allow our current circumstances to limit our vision, thinking that where we are now is as far as we can go.

But God's Word tells us that He has more in store for us than we can imagine. Ephesians 3:20 reminds us that God can "do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think." This means that we must trust in God's promises and use our imagination to dream big, knowing that God can surpass even our wildest expectations.

Embracing God's Call to Move Forward

This sermon reminds us that God calls us to rise up as trailblazers, groundbreakers, and pioneers. He is asking us to step into the unknown with faith, trusting that He will guide us every step of the way. Whether facing obstacles, settling into comfort, or dealing with setbacks, God's message remains the same: "Behold, I am doing a new thing" (Isaiah 43:19).

As we move forward, let us remember that our journey is not just for ourselves but for those who will follow in our footsteps. We are called to create new paths, to dream beyond our current circumstances, and to trust that God's plans for us are greater than we can imagine. Let us rise, embrace the unknown, and walk boldly into the future God has prepared for us.