Getting There, Step 2 — Employ Strength and Courage
Tuesday, 20th of July 2010 at 08:29:30 AM
As we enter the places where we hope to implement our vision we face opposition. Going against the way things have always been is hard work. One guy who experienced this was Joshua.
In the latter parts of the book of Deuteronomy and the beginning of the book of Joshua, there is one phrase that sticks out.
“Be strong and courageous,” Moses tells Joshua twice. (Deut. 31:6,7).
The Lord commands Joshua three times, “Be strong and courageous,” (Deut. 31:23; Joshua 1:6, 7 & 9).
The men of Israel give themselves to follow Joshua ending with the words, “Only be strong and courageous.” (Joshua 1:18)
Why this phrase?
Israel would be doing a lot of actions in the coming days. Actions require strength to initiate and courage to complete. As we fight against the status quo, leaders will require both strength and courage in the things that they will do.
If you have recently taken any of our seminars, would you do something for me? Turn to the back of your student notebook and go over those plans you wrote down. And as you look at them, be reminded of what the Lord said to Joshua “Be strong and very courageous.”
In our ministry as we step out in faith He will guide us and prepare our people. He will go ahead of us into the places where we face opposition. Even the troubles we encounter and our own weaknesses He can use to fulfill all his promises to us. The Lord always ended his command to Joshua with the promise “for the LORD your God is with you.” And He will be with us. The Lord Jesus himself says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matt. 28:19-20)
This post is part of the Youth Connection articles. Other YC articles can also be downloaded or seen in the Resource Section of this website.
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