Be strong and of a good courage

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 30-31

Deuteronomy 31:7-8 And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the Lord hath sworn unto their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it. 8 And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

What a moment in history! Can you imagine the sight of Moses calling Joshua before the children of Israel and giving him this charge? Wow!

Joshua had spent a lot of time with Moses and had sat at the door of the tent while Moses spoke with the Lord. Joshua had fought Amalek and discovered the fact that when Moses' hands were held high, he and his forces gained the victory. Joshua had brought back a good report from the land of Canaan. He had been a good fighter, friend and lieutenant. However, now he is to lead.

His charge was given before all the people of Israel and at the command of God. This was not Moses' idea, although had it been up to him, he might have chosen Joshua. God's command included victory - 'thou shalt cause them to inherit it'.

How would Joshua accomplish this monumental task? Joshua would have to rely on three things.

1. He would have to conquer fear and have faith. Joshua is told to be strong and of a good courage. He was given a task by God and he would be in a situation that could be paralyzing with the fear it produced. Moses told him to 'fear not'.

2. He would have to submit to God's leadership in his life. Moses told him the Lord was going before them. That means if Joshua would follow the Lord, he would lead the people. All godly leaders are faithful followers of Jesus.

3. He would have the promise of God's presence. God would be with Joshua and would not fail him. He would not forsake him. Joshua was promised victory and the presence and provision of God.

I love this charge to Joshua because it reminds me that all followers of Jesus are charged to be leaders in this world. We too must have courage and strength. We must follow the Holy Spirit's leadership. We too have the promise of God's presence.

Hebrews 13:5-6 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

In Christ,
Rody