“You Have Never Passed This Way Before”: Trusting God in New Territory

Last Updated on December 17, 2025 by Stacy Averette

There’s a small phrase tucked inside Joshua 3:4 that has been echoing in my heart lately:

“You have never passed this way before.”

It was God’s reminder to His people as they prepared to cross the Jordan River into a land they had never seen. A land full of promise, yes — but also full of unknowns. Steps they had not taken. Paths they could not predict.

And isn’t that exactly where many of us find ourselves?

A new season.
A new stage of family life.
A shift in relationships.
A change in our homes, our routines, our responsibilities, our dreams.

Even when the change is good, new territory can feel unsettling. We want a map. A guarantee. A clear view of what’s around the bend.

But God says to us now what He told Israel then:

“You haven’t been this way before — but I have.”

He knows the land.
He knows the path.
He knows what’s needed at every step.

And He invites us to follow Him — not with fear, but with faith.

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When the Familiar Isn’t Available

In our “Embrace Where You Are” conversation last week, we talked about making peace with the present — not waiting for the perfect house, perfect job, or perfect season before living fully.

But sometimes the present is unfamiliar, too.

Maybe you’ve entered a season you didn’t expect —
• A quieter home
• A changing role with adult children
• Aging parents to care for
• A shift in marriage or friendships
• A new job, ministry, or dream
• A move, downsizing, or simply renovating your heart priorities

It’s disorienting to walk a path without well-worn footprints. You’re doing things you’ve never done. You’re making decisions you’ve never faced. You’re stretching in ways that feel holy but also uncomfortable.

And God whispers:

“Walk with Me. I know the way.”

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What Joshua 3 Teaches Us About New Territory

The Israelites weren’t told to rush ahead, to figure it all out, or to pretend they weren’t nervous.

Here’s what God did tell them:

1. “Keep your eyes on the ark (of the covenant).”

The ark represented His presence.
When they didn’t know where to step next,
they watched where God moved.

2. “Consecrate yourselves.”

Prepare your heart.
Quiet the noise.
Make room for what God is about to do.

3. Step into the water — even before the way is clear.

The Jordan didn’t part until the priests set their feet into the edge of the river.
Courage was required before clarity arrived.

These same patterns guide us today.

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Practical Ways to Walk Through Unfamiliar Territory

Here are calm, simple steps you can take when life shifts into a place you’ve never been:

1. Slow down long enough to sense God’s direction.

Rushed decisions in new seasons often come from fear.
Steady decisions come from presence.

Spend a few quiet minutes each morning:
• Reading Scripture
• Praying a simple, honest prayer
• Asking God for one next step — not the whole plan

If you need more help sensing God’s direction, read this post and this post for encouragement.

2. Let go of the pressure to know everything.

You don’t need a five-year map.
You need today’s light.

You’re not failing because you feel unsure.
You’re simply walking a path you’ve never walked.

3. Reflect on the stones God has already placed behind you.

Think of past moments where God guided you, provided for you, and steadied you.
Those “memory stones” become anchors in uncertain places.

4. Ask for wisdom — and expect it.

James 1:5 promises that God gives wisdom generously and without finding fault.
You’re allowed to ask more than once.
You’re allowed to need direction all over again tomorrow.

5. Walk in small obedience.

Sometimes the “Jordan River moment” is as simple as:
• Making a phone call
• Starting the project
• Setting the boundary
• Saying yes
• Saying no
• Taking care of your body
• Asking for help

Clarity often comes after obedience, not before.

6. Surround yourself with faith-filled voices.

You’re not meant to navigate new terrain alone.
This is why sisterhood matters — women who remind you who God is when you forget, who cheer you on when you hesitate, who pray when you are weary.

Click the image below to join the private Facebook group.

7. Stay curious instead of fearful.

Curiosity keeps your heart open.
Fear closes it.

Try praying:
“Lord, what are You inviting me to discover here?”

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A Gentle Encouragement for This New Path

You may not have asked for the unfamiliar.
You may not feel ready for it.
You may wish things looked more like they used to.

But the God who led Israel through rushing waters
is the same God who leads you through this moment.

He isn’t uncertain.
He isn’t nervous.
He isn’t limited by your lack of experience.

You’ve never passed this way before —
but He has gone ahead of you.

And every step you take with Him
is leading you into deeper trust,
new courage,
and unexpected blessings.

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A Closing Prayer

Lord, You know this path long before I step onto it.
Help me not fear the unfamiliar but follow Your lead with trust.
Steady my heart where it feels unsure.
Give me courage for the next small step,
wisdom for decisions,
and peace that goes ahead of me.
Thank You for guiding me into places that reshape me,
renew me,
and draw me closer to You.
Amen.

If you haven’t read “Embrace Where You Are,” it’s a gentle companion piece to this reflection — reminding us that God meets us fully in the season we’re standing in now.