Be Strong & Courageous

God’s Message to the Israelite Nation came forth with power as He spoke to the new leadership, Joshua.  As God spoke to them it became a command as we see in vs. 9 of Joshua 1: “Have not I commanded Thee?  Be strong and of a good courage, be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed for the Lord Thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” God is calling for Strong saints and those who are of Good Courage: He uses powerful words such as “be not afraid” – “or dismayed!” Fear has swept through our nation, mainly because a segment of people did not get their own way and perhaps the fear of new leadership.  There will always be a note of fear if one does not know the Lord Jesus Christ nor the Strength that is in the Word of God. Hear the Word of the Lord: Rom 13:1-2 “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. VS6 For this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers ...”  Now it is our moment to fear God, trust His leadership and to be Strong and Courageous as His Word commands.   The Word of the Lord commands us to be Strong all through the Old Testament and then we turn to the fulfillment of the Law and see that there is a “Strong” message in the New Testament. And this is a powerful Passage that most Christians are familiar with ... Eph. 6:10-13 Finally, my brethren, be Strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 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. 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.”  Daniel was called to obedience and God gave him this consolation ... 11:32 “And such as do wickedly against the Covenant shall He corrupt ...: but the people that do know their God shall be Strong, and do exploits.” We are strong in Him! 

Loving you, Pastor