“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
God encourages Joshua as a new generation of Israelites prepares to enter the promise land. They’d been wandering around for 40 years in the desert. I’m guessing they were mighty eager for a chance to finally cross over to Canaan and wondered more than once when they’d be finished wandering. Those words bring comfort to me too. Just like Joshua and the Israelites, I need to remember that no matter where God leads, He’ll be there by my side and promises to never leave me.
Discouragement enters my heart when a loved one misunderstands me and a close relationship goes sour. My tendency is to want to fix it right now. My mind projects into the future and dwells on a worst case scenario outcome. I find it hard to be patient and wait for God to work out the situation His way and in His perfect timing. God knows what I’m going through and the defeat I feel. The remedy is to put on the full armor of God, stand strong and be courageous. With God on my side, who can be against me?
Prayer: Dear God, forgive me for being so impatient and wanting it my way right now.
Ask: Is there some battle or war you must fight this week? Do you believe God knows about your struggle? Is there any reason why you cannot let go and let God shoulder the burden for you?
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