God’s Command (II)

God’s Command (II)

Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. Joshua 1:6-7 [KJV]

Bible Reading: Joshua 1

Yesterday, we turned to the story of Joshua for encouragement. God’s instruction to Joshua was simple, “be strong and be of good courage”. Joshua must have been afraid and fearful to lead the people of Israel alone. Moses his master was no longer alive and Joshua needed help, divine help. That’s a good place to be, don’t you think? Acknowledging your inability to help yourself. A place of absolute surrender to and reliance on Jesus Christ knowing that you can do all things through Christ that strengthens you (Philippians 4:13). A place to be led by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:14). Like Joshua, you may be scared of the journey ahead because of your past experiences. The fear of the past may make you dread the future. Here’s God’s word to you: “be strong and of good courage”. It is a command, not an advice.

Thank God for His mercy. I’m amazed God reached out to Joshua because He knew his thought. God knew Joshua needed encouragement and God is always on time. God encouraged him. Dear friends, you cannot afford to rely on your strength. Rather, you have to seek God’s face and constantly remind yourself that with Him you are everything He wants you to be and without Him, you are nothing. You have to admit that you are weak and you need His strength and confidence to thrive in life and in destiny. God knows all things, so why hide your feelings and fears from Him?

Daily Confession: I have the Spirit of God in me and fear is not permitted in my life in Jesus’ name.

Intercessory prayer: Lord let your peace reign in countries experiencing war and crises.

Hymn: Trust and obey

For there’s no other way

To be happy in Jesus

But to trust and obey.