Don’t Let Life Pass You By
There is a car commercial that aired recently. It showed a group of young people, getting out and having fun. The commercial goes on to say, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” It’s a good quote and it encourages people to get out of their comfort zone and explore and go do things!
But what about those that are a little nervous to do so? How do you gain the courage you need in order to get out there and live life to the fullest? It starts with claiming God’s promise.
Be Strong and Courageous
After Moses had died, the Israelites were ready to enter the promised land. God came to Joshua, the new leader of the people, and explained to him that it was his time to rise up and take charge. God told him several times in Joshua chapter 1 to Be Strong and Courageous.
“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 ESV
It’s an inspirational message, but if we look at the whole context, we see that it’s not just a “go get ’em tiger!” type encouragement. It’s more of a, “You’re going to feel like you’re about to die every day.” type encouragement.
When the Israelites were entering the promised land, the scouts saw that the place was filled with some tough people. They were mighty warriors, giants, strong armies, and people that you wouldn’t want to mess with. We know that Moses wasn’t able to enter the promised land because he wasn’t strong and courageous; he listened to the scouts that said we should run the other way.
But God had given them this land. God had said he would take care of them. They had to be strong and courageous.
How we Apply this to Our Lives Today
Today we don’t have to worry about fighting giants. At least not real giants. Most of ours are metaphorical giants that come in the form of addictions, financial worries, work related stress, and family troubles. Our giants can actually be harder to conquer, although less physically intimidating.
The secret to overcoming any adversity, however, is found in Joshua 1:7 which says, “Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go.” When we follow what the Lord wants us to do, then our trials and tribulations will crumble before us.
As long as we are in God’s will, we will be able to claim the promise of being strong and courageous. We won’t have anything that can hold us back, and nothing can get in our way as we rise to the top of success! It’s a great promise, simple to follow, and the benefits are huge.
Being Strong and Courageous
Although it’s a pretty simple concept, it’s not always that easy. We are fallible humans and when it comes down to it we let our emotions get in the way. That’s why I recommend a courage rock. A small smooth stone, one like David used when conquering his giant, kept in your pocket. Any time those worries, fears, or discouragements creep in you feel the rock in your pocket and claim God’s promise.
As a writer in Billings, MT, my rock is kept on my desk. It’s a visual reminder to me that God has my back, and if he is for me then nobody (and nothing) can be against me.