"Be strong and bold; have no fear or dread of them, because it is the LORD your God who goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you."
Deuteronomy 31:6 (NRSV)
Prodigal Thoughts: What is with the people in the Old Testament? Why did God have to always tell them to "be strong and bold" and "do be afraid"? Here is a brief background for you. The book of Deuteronomy is said to have been written just prior to the Hebrew people entering the Promised Land. They didn’t really know what was about to happen or who they would face.
This was the land that God promised, but the land was inhabited, but there was a LOT of uncertainty. Also, keep in mind that to this point, only Moses had spoken with God. We know that the Hebrew people complained a lot while they were touring the wilderness for forty years, just walking around in circles. I’m sure they needed to be reminded that God was not going to just lead them to what He has promised and then let them fend for themselves. No, He wanted to be among His people and lead them through any situation. Well, what about us? How does this apply to us somewhere around 4,000 years later (give or take a milenia). God is still with us. He still desires to be among His people. He has NO desire to see us fail. If you look at the news or social media, there could be plenty for us to fear. It would be easy for us to just walk around in circles, wandering aimlessly due to the condition of the world around us. I have good news, my beloved friends…God is still God. He calls order and peace out of the chaos. What is our "promised land"? A close, devoted relationship with the One who created us, the One who gave us life and a purpose. Be watchful, but do not fear. God is with us.
Prayer for today: Today, I pray that we would rest in His peace and His strength. That we would not be afraid because of the things that are happening around us, but that we would trust that no matter our circumstance, our Heavenly Father is not ignorant of our condition and that He is with us every step of the way. I pray that we would be fearless for the Kingdom of God and that we would boldly tell of the love and hope that God has for us.
If you need prayer, please reply and I will pray for you. If you would like to talk about this verse or have questions, I’m always open for your feedback.
God’s grace on you…
Prodigal Thinker 