When God passed the leadership baton to Joshua after Moses
died, he said to him: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be
discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua
1:9). Joshua needed this personal confirmation of God’s presence as he led the
children of Israel across the Jordan River into the Promised Land.
My
two-year-old grandson, Gabriel, reinforced this truth to me in a humorous way.
He'd been learning the verse for quite some time. One day when his mother
picked up the spanking spoon to discipline him, he clenched his fists, screwed
up his face, and with eyes shut tight said, "Be strong and
courageous!"
Like
Gabriel, I’ve faced situations that provoke fear. Perhaps you have, too.
Whether it’s physical pain or a leadership challenge we dread, the Lord can
take scripture we’ve memorized and whisper its truth into our ears: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid .
. .
Prayer: Dear Father, you know that today I face
___________________________. Please help me to be strong and courageous,
knowing that You will be with me wherever I go and in whatever I have to face. I
know I can trust You, Lord, because You are my strength.
~~
