WEEK 2: Say No to Discouragement, Yes to Strength
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
The opening verses of the book of Joshua are timeless and empowering. For three millennia, they have stirred the hearts of God's people, and for years, they've held a special place in my heart—recently more than ever. Joshua 1:6 begins with a commanding whisper from God: "Be strong." These words, echoing through Scripture, offer a profound guide for living empowered lives.
Be Strong: Robert Morgan writes that during his wife's final days, the command to "be strong" took on new significance. In the face of emotional turmoil, he needed strength for her and their family. In times of trials, the call to "be strong" resounds throughout Scripture, occurring exactly thirty times—a daily reminder of God's provision.
"Be strong and courageous; don't be terrified or afraid. For the Lord...will go with you." Deuteronomy 31:6
Thirty Days, Thirty Commands: The repetition of "be strong" underscores its importance. From Deuteronomy to 2 Timothy, God consistently urges His people to embrace strength and courage. These commands are not mere encouragements but divine mandates, emphasizing our need to draw strength from God amidst life's challenges.
"Do not be afraid or discouraged. Be strong and courageous, for the Lord will do this." Josh. 10:25
Meditation on Strength: Strength is not a magical summoning but a result of meditation on God's Word. Joshua 1:8 encourages us to meditate on Scripture day and night. In these moments, we discover the inexhaustible might of our Lord. To amass strength, immerse yourself in the thirty "be strong" verses. Let them become personal slogans, etching God's power into your character.
"Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart be courageous." Psalm 27:14 "Joshua 1:6 begins with the command, “Be strong.”
Do not be afraid: Fear, the antithesis of strength, often hinders our progress. The formula for overcoming fear lies in recognizing our tendency to overestimate problems and underestimate God. By fixing our focus on Christ rather than the storms, we navigate challenges with confidence.
"Fear is overestimating your problems and underestimating your God."
Do not be discouraged: Discouragement finds no commendation in Scripture; it's a wrong choice and a subtle sin. The Bible repeatedly warns against it, reminding us to resist its pull. Resignation, recalibration, and recalculation serve as practical tools to counter discouragement, redirecting our focus from self to God's plans.
"Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged." Joshua 1:9 “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast number, for the battle is not yours, but God’s…. Do not be afraid or discouraged” 2 Chronicles 20:15-17 “Be strong and courageous! Don’t be…discouraged” 2 Chronicles 32:7
As we traverse life's journey, the divine imperative to "be strong" accompanies us. God's commands echo through the ages, inviting us to draw strength from His eternal might. Amidst challenges, fears, and discouragements, remember these words: "Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord is with you." Embrace empowered living through the unwavering strength found in God's promises.
"The secret of amassing strength is reminding yourself God requires it—and He who requires it, provides it.... Discouragement...It’s the germ of gloom that sends the plague of pessimism through your bloodstream, and it’s highly contagious.... When I’m discouraged, it’s because I’m looking at myself, my own goals, my hopes and aspirations, my dreams and drives. Whenever I’m encouraged, it’s because I’m looking at the Lord and His plans and purposes.... First, resignation. Give God the aspirations you’re clinging to; He can do more with them than you can.... Second, recalibration. Expect God to turn blows into blessings and setbacks into comebacks.... Third, recalculation. We have to count our blessings and add up our gains. In any situation, we can find things for which to be thankful.... Press ahead into whatever God has for you and take these words to heart: Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid! Do not be discouraged!" —Robert Morgan
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). If you have not memorized this verse, friend, can I encourage you to do so this week? You may not need it now, but you will someday, and when you do you'll be glad to have this promise to cling to.
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8 Comments
6/11/2024 11:25:36 am
“Discouragement finds no commendation in scripture …”
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6/11/2024 12:28:26 pm
Thank you for your thoughtful comment, Michele!! :) It truly is profound to reflect on how Scripture consistently encourages us to find strength and hope in God. Discouragement is never endorsed, but rather, we are urged to trust in His promises and faithfulness. Let's continue to ponder and draw inspiration from this truth!
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6/12/2024 03:01:05 pm
I had not heard of this book but it sounds very interesting.
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6/12/2024 03:03:15 pm
Thank you for your comment, Donna!! "The Jordan River Rules" by Robert Morgan is indeed an intriguing book. It draws parallels between the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land and our own spiritual journeys, offering practical lessons for navigating life's challenges. I highly recommend giving it a read if you're looking for inspiration and guidance in your faith journey.
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6/12/2024 03:34:02 pm
"Strength is not a magical summoning but a result of meditation on God's Word." Yes! I can only be strong when I know God is going to help me.
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6/12/2024 04:02:28 pm
Thank you for your thoughtful comment, Jerralea!! :) It's truly empowering to realize that our strength comes from meditating on God's Word and trusting in His help. Knowing that the Bible encourages us to be strong around 30 times is indeed a powerful reminder of God's support and presence in our lives. I'm glad you found this post meaningful. Keep meditating on His Word and drawing strength from His promises!
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6/13/2024 06:22:16 pm
I'm so glad to hear you're enjoying the book, Lisa! It's wonderful to see how "The Jordan River Rules" is resonating with readers. Thank you for sharing your feedback, and I hope you continue to find inspiration and encouragement as you read. Keep us posted on your thoughts and any insights you gain!
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