Be Strong and of Good Courage

Scripture: This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:8-9

Observation: As Joshua assumes leadership of Israel and thus prepares to cross over the Jordan, these are God's instructions. Three times over the course of four verses - verses 6, 7, and 9 - the Lord repeats the line "be strong and of good courage". And in between, verse 8 says the source of that courage is ... the promised prosperity and success found in meditating on God's laws.

Application: Already this morning, I have found myself worrying deeply about the upcoming financial recession sure to follow this disease. I wish for the ability of all to resume work so as to soften the blow. I know my own livelihood could be at risk eventually for I won't be in the same position of security as during the last recession. I am becoming ... afraid, and lacking courage.

Yet this is the promise of the Lord, that those who pursue is word and meditate on him day and night will not just survive, but be prosperous. It was true for Israel despite the Lord's knowledge that they would eventually fail. Likewise, it is true for me as a believe in Jesus Christ. Even though I stumble daily, yet meditating on the Lord - not on worry or fear, but on the Lord and his word - will guide me well.

Has he not commanded me to do this? Yes! Be strong and of good courage!! Meditate on God's word day and night ... not on circumstances, or future issues, or economic challenges, or stupid politicians, or disease, or any other matter. Meditate on the word. And what does the word say to do? Love others, dwell in the land and do good, care for the widows and downtrodden, seek justice, be joyful, worship, and ... do not be afraid.

Prayer: Lord, today I turn my fears over to you entirely, and instead I take up your word in my heart. May I meditate on your teaching, and find strength and courage there. Your ways are perfect, and I lean into them throughout this situation, however it may go. I choose faith in you over fear in the unknown. Amen.