Be Strong
By David Branker
In the book of Joshua, God reminded him and the people of Israel several times about “The land the Lord, your God has given you.” Along with that promise, came another less frequent but just as powerful reminder from God to Joshua – “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.”
God’s promises in our lives are sometimes accompanied with battles, obstacles, and even bad reports – things we must work through, fight through, and endure before we can walk in the promise. One thing is certain with Joshua as it is with us today – the battle never depended on Joshua, the people of Israel, their weapons, or their strategies. God made it undeniably clear that the battle depended on His power. That is why the Priest led the armies of Israel carrying the Ark – representing the presence and power of Almighty God.
As you seek God today, in what area do you need His strength the most? Draw close to Him, trust Him for wisdom, and do not be moved in fear by what you hear. Stand courageously with your God and know that His promises for your family, your friends, and your future are certain.
bq. Joshua 1:9 NLT
“Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
David
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Just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to respond Norma. Your support is welcomed and very much needed. I, too, also enjoy David’s wisdom and come here often to hear what him and Stovall have to say. Thank you all……Celebration Rocks!
Pastor Branker-You know how much I love you and your heart for the Lord. Thank you for these words of encouragement. If you dont mind I would like to address Julia’s response. Julia, be assured God hears every uttterance of every heart. No matter how big or small. As for discouragement and defeat. Yes, life does sometimes bring discouragement, but only we can allow it to defeat us. When we try to figure things out for ourselves or make things happen our way, God will allow us our will and our own decisions, but He is ALWAYS just a prayer away and will help us to get `unstuck ‘ from that baggage that weighs us down and keeps us from the joy-filled life He has for us. God is not a God of defeat, but of victory. Continue to press into Him. I dont know your particular situation, but I have felt just as you do and what God has done for me, He will certainly do for you. Just because we are Christians doesnt eliminate doubt and fear in our lives. It does however,mean that we have a place to take that fear and doubt and that place is the throne of Jesus. He not only hears us, but will always answer the cries of His children. Keep talking to Him, He really likes to hear from His children too. He knows we are not perfect, thats why He sent Jesus. Love Him, communicate with Him, spend time with Him and in His Word. He will NEVER fail you. He loves you too much. I will be praying for you, Julia, that God’s love and presence in your life will protect and strengthen you, taking away all your fears. God bless you!
I am a bit of a loss for words and/or how to say what is in my heart, but I wanted to thank you for these words of wisdom. I have been living in a state of fear and discouragement for so long that I would actually be going out of my comfort zone to feel safe and content. As I have attended Celebration church my heart has been melting and opening – and while that is a good thing – I keep one foot securely in the back stuck in quicksand, and the other foot attempting to step forward.
I watch your family, Stovall’s family, and other families I am in contact with and wonder how you each deal with life, its pressures, ups & downs, and inevitably discouragements. By no means do I think my circumstances are worse or different than anyone else. I do, however, feel that life continues to bring discouragement and defeat. I wonder if it’s a lack of faith or if it’s God leading me somewhere but that foot in the quicksand is robbing me of growth. I wish I understood and knew more scripture like what you have shown above. More than anything I wish I could feel safe and content – and feel God’s love and strength upon me. I will continue to pray…and hope he truly hears everyone.
If it’s appropriate I would ask for prayer from you – as I know he hears you.
This could not have come at a better time. Thank you Pastor David for your wisdom.
Thank you for that timely word for me! I am always encouraged by the messages.