Be strong

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Joshua had reason to be afraid: he was given the leadership that had rested on Moses’ shoulders. Joshua have lived 40 years in the wilderness under Moses. He had seen the challenges, but he had also wistnessed the power of God. God slew those who disobeyed Him.

Fortunately Joshua loved the presence of God, he is now being instructed to keep the word of God ever before him and to go trust God to be his deliverer.

Each of us faces fear, if we didn’t there would be no need for faith. We would rely on our own strength. When we face dismay at failed outcomes we could be inclined to back away. However, if God has spoken into our lives then we must be faithful to follow Him, keeping the word of God before us and relying on the Holy Spirit to guide us.

I am going through a difficult time at present: my flatmates are sick, I am skirting unwellness myself and having to keep moving. Thai past week I went to interview refugees I am responsible for. They have overwhelming difficulties, ones that only the Lord can solve. Without the Holy Spirit I would be lost. I must keep the Lord before me and worship my way through.

Joshua had a successful battle with Jericho but the next one was a failure, because there was unknown sin in the camp. Disappointment would have been huge, however, a valuable lesson followed. Disappointment comes when something is amiss. We must remember to have the word of God as a lamp to our feet, the Spirit of God as our guide and faith in our saviour as our lifeline. He will guide us into all truth. Amen!