Be Strong and Courageous
It’s late and I can’t sleep so I open my Bible and begin to pour over some of my favorite Old Testament stories. I walk with Moses and listen in on his conversations with God.
I feel his insecurity.
I understand his questioning.
I know his desperation.
I stand at the edge of the Jordan with Joshua and I can feel his heart racing. How big the the task ahead must seem.
God’s own words hint of how he must be feeling.
“Be strong and of good courage…” Joshua 1:6
“Only be strong and very courageous…” vs 7
“Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid…” vs 9
No matter who we are or how our assignments may differ God never changes.
God, the author of all our stories, pens His words of encouragement and reminds us of His divine presence. We don’t go in our own strength, we go in His.
We, too, can be strong and very courageous as the Lord commands us to cross over that place between us and the land He has promised.
Is there a task before you that seems too big? Does your courage feel small?
Have I not commanded you? 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
Love,
Shelly
Dove’s Nest
One of our assignments during the last OBS was to write a letter to ourselves from God using our scriptures from the week. I am sharing my letter again for you and for the women currently staying at the Dove’s Nest in North Carolina and praying that you will read it as a letter to you from God.
Dear daughter.
Let me quiet your fears and anxious heart this morning for I truly am with you. Do not be intimidated or discouraged by any negative reports. Keep your confidence and hope in me for I am your God. I will give you strength and I will be your help. I will sustain you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. The battle has already been won. Because you have set me always before you, you shall not be moved. Because your eyes are on me, you can stand firm in this place. Give me your cares, (insert your name). Lay your burdens at my feet, my beautiful daughter. Release the weight of it. You were not meant to carry this. I hear your voice. I hear your cries and I will rescue you. I will deliver you from distress and trouble. My promises are certain and my Word is truth. Find rest today in me and do not be shaken. I am your God. I am Jehovah Shalom, your peace. I am Jehovah-Nissi, your banner. I am Jehovah Rapha, your healer. I am Jehovah-Shammah, I am present. I am El-Shaddai, sufficient for all your needs. I am Jehovah-Rohi, your shepherd.
I AM.
Rest in me.
Love,
Father
(Psalm 16:8, Psalm 55:22, 2 Samuel 22:7, Psalm 34:17, Isaiah 41:10)
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Today I am linking with our current online Bible study Blog Hop at Proverbs 31 Ministries. We would love for you to join us there!