Abraham Lincoln is widely recognized as one of the greatest presidents in American history. He led with courage and conviction during one of the most decisive times our country has ever known. But Lincoln’s road to success was paved with repeated failure.

When he went off to the Black Hawk War, he was commissioned as a captain—but returned home a private. So much for his military career. His small country store failed. As a lawyer in Springfield, many found him too unpolished, impractical, or temperamental.

Turning to politics, Lincoln faced defeat after defeat: in his campaign for the legislature, his attempt to be nominated for Congress, his bid to become Commissioner of the General Land Office, and in two major Senate races. He even failed to secure his party’s nomination for Vice President.

Yet, in 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected President of the United States—and stepped into the destiny that shaped a nation. Lincoln’s story echoes the experience of many of God’s people. The enemy often uses our past defeats to whisper lies: “You’ll never win,” “You’re trapped,” “You’ve failed too many times,” or “You’ll never fulfill your calling.”

But the first chapter of Joshua reminds us that God's people were never meant to live in the shadow of defeat. They were called to step into victory and claim the promises of God. So are we.

Reflection Question:

Where have you allowed past failures to define your present mindset? What “ground” is God inviting you to courageously claim today?

Prayer Focus:

Pray that Gateway will boldly possess all the land God has entrusted to us and build every part of what He envisions. Pray Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Ask the Lord to encourage your heart and renew your strength. In your prayer time, claim victory over the enemy—both for your life and for our church.