Be Strong and Courageous

Deut 31 Moses presents to us an example of what to do when the hour draws near and you prepare to take your last breath. Draw those you love near to you and whisper words that will be words of confidence and challenge. Moses told the Israelites and Joshua in particular: “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them (meaning those they find as they cross the Jordan). The Lord, your God, is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.” [Deut 31:6] 

Again, Moses called Joshua and repeated that last sentence to him privately. His last set of instructions was to “assemble the people so they may hear and learn and fear the Lord your God, and be careful to observe all the words of this law.” [Deut 31:12] It was time. God commissioned Joshua to take Moses’ place, and again he said, “Be strong and courageous…I will be with you.” [Deut 31:23].

God will repeat these words as we close Deuteronomy and open Joshua. They are words of hope and deliverance from the enemies. God charged Joshua, and He charges us to do the same. There is no enemy too strong for God. He will do just as He said to Isaiah “your ears will hear a word behind you, “This is the way, walk in it.” [Is 30:21]

Comforting words to live by.