Deuteronomy 31:6 (KJV) Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
When Moses spoke on behalf of GOD to Israel and Joshua (he was about to depart) as they where about to cross the Jordan river lead by Joshua. GOD’s people needed courage and to be strong because they had to fight for the land and enter by faith fully trusting in the LORD. There were giants, fortified cities, large armies, strange gods, … When Israel fully trusted in the LORD they were victorious but when they relied on themself they failed. When they looked to GOD they had success but when they turned to the idols they failed (Deuteronomy 31:16-17, 27-29).
For us, Jesus Christ’s church, we are in a time where we need to be strong and of good courage. This time actually started at Pentecost. As we come closer and closer to His return and as lawlessness is on a dramatic increase in the western world we as a church need to fully trust in the LORD and call on Him to give us the strength and courage needed to fulfil His great commission, to not compromise with the world, to fight against evil “Ephesians 6:10-13 (KJV) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”
We need to realise that this strength and courage is not of ourselves but comes from Him “Psalms 28:7-9 (KJV) The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. 8 The LORD is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed. 9 Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance: feed them also, and lift them up for ever.”.
We need to understand that we are not alone that He is with us, no matter what, just as Mose told Israel in Deuteronomy and Jesus told us in Matthew 28:20b (KJV) “… lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
Our part is to believe and trust in Him, walking by faith discovering and doing the things He has called us to without wavering. Therefore let us encourage ourself in the LORD and also keep encouraging each other to be strong in the LORD and the power of His might. “Deuteronomy 31:8 (NKJV) And the LORD, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.””