Our theme verse for this year is Joshua 1:9 which says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” There are so many things that I enjoy studying about in the scriptures. Because it talks about finding your courage, being strong, and being brave. This verse has challenges us to look at other verses that have to do with being strong, brave, and courageous too.
There are several places in the Bible that say, “Be of good courage.” I think of Numbers 13:20, Deuteronomy 31:6-7, Ezra 10:4 and many other places. There are also many different passages that teach us to be strong and not afraid. We need to be brave, not just to face bad guys or a dragon, but stand up for what we believe in. I think its important to not fear anyone or anything other than God. The phrase “do not fear” appear 365 times in the Bible. That’s a lot of times!
It is not good for us to fear because God is always with us. Joshua said, “God is with you wherever you go.” That is a great verse. He promises never leave us or forsake us. This is a promise made in both in the New Testament and the Old Testament. In the Great Commission, of Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus said, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
It is super good to trust in Him. Fear can take your trust away. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.” We need to trust in God! No one is bigger and better than Him!
Comments