Be Strong and Courageous

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Scripture: Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; his presence is a constant, and He will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Devotion:

In the book of Deuteronomy, we find Moses at the end of his journey, preparing to pass the mantle of leadership to Joshua. The Israelites are on the brink of entering the Promised Land, a moment they've awaited for 40 years. However, this transition comes with significant challenges and uncertainties. It is in this context that Moses, under divine inspiration, speaks these powerful words to Joshua and the people of Israel, urging them to be strong and courageous.

Moses, who had led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness, knew that his time was drawing to a close. God had informed him that he would not cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. Instead, Joshua, his faithful aide, was chosen to lead the people. In Deuteronomy 31, Moses addresses the Israelites for the final time, providing them with instructions and reminders of God's faithfulness.

Verse 6 is part of Moses's charge to Joshua. It is both a command and a promise. Moses instructs Joshua to be strong and courageous, not to be afraid or discouraged by the daunting task ahead. This command is grounded in the assurance that the Lord Himself would go with them. God’s presence was the source of their strength and courage.

The command to be strong and courageous is not just for Joshua and the Israelites, but for each of us. We may not be leading a nation into a physical land, but we all face our own battles and challenges. Fear and uncertainty can be overwhelming, but this verse reminds us that we are not alone. God's promise to Joshua extends to us today. He is our ever-present help in times of trouble.

When we face daunting tasks or enter unknown territories in life, the words of Deuteronomy 31:6 offer us comfort and strength. We are called to stand firm, not in our power, but in the confidence that God is with us. He will never leave us nor forsake us, his presence is our constant companion.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise to always be with us. Help us to be strong and courageous, knowing that You are our ever-present help. When fear and doubt creep in, remind us of Your faithful presence. May we walk in confidence and trust, following Your lead in all things. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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