Strong

Joshua 1:9 NKJV — “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.”

These words were to Joshua as he was leading the Children of Israel into the Promised Land.

It’s not a suggestion, God gave a command.

God’s command to Joshua can still be applied to us today, we need to obey the Lord completely and to be strong and courageous in that obedience.

Nehemiah 8:10 NKJV — Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”

Here we see the Children of Israel grieving over their sins.

But it was a holy day unto the Lord, thus the call was to celebrate, not because they were ignoring their sins, but because God was greater.

That is why they could celebrate and find strength in the joy of the Lord.

Nahum 1:7 KJV — The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.

It’s not our ability or inability which brings us strength or security, it’s understanding God is truly the only Refuge and in Him we are saved.

Proverbs 14:26 KJV — In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

It is when we place our trust in Him and honor God that we can find strength and confidence in His faithfulness.

It’s not easy to lay aside our own ideas of refuge, security, and how to be strong, but it’s the only true way.

Any other “strength” will rot out from under us when we need it the most.

But when we find our strength in the Lord, there is true refuge.

Ephesians 6:10 KJV — Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

1 Corinthians 16:13 NKJV — Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.

For these are the things we can do in Christ Jesus, our Lord.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You so much for Your Word. I feel so unable to truly express the strength and security of walking with You in all things. Lord, I do not want to lean on anything but You. Please continue to expound to my heart and mind what it means to walk in Your strength, to find the joy of the Lord is my strength! Thank You for Your wonderous ways and Your incredible truth. Thank You for Your love and faithfulness. I praise Your holy name!! Amen.