As God led the people of Israel out of Egypt, he didn’t take them the shortest way into the wildness because he knew his people would change their minds and return to Egypt if they saw they had to fight. Many people who want to be successful are sometimes lacking in commitment if trouble comes ahead of them.

Cortes, one of the great Spanish explorers, discovered what we know today as Mexico. He and many sailors dedicated themselves to exploring and conquering an unknown land. On arriving, his men were afraid as they looked around at an undiscovered world. Sensing their fear, Cortes gathered them all and set fire to their ships. He then announced, “There is no turning back.”

“I have decided t o follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back.” This hymn is commonly sung at church. As we determine to follow him, he will leave peace with us. Take courage as you face persecution in the world because I’ve conquered the world and you have my peace in you (John 16:33).