Be Strong and Courageous
The New Year is upon us and it is a time not to reflect but rather to look ahead at the year before us. As such, I was praying about my direction for this new year and I felt like the Lord gave me these verses, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” ( Deuteronomy 31:6 ).
Over the past several months, the Lord has given me an incredible vision for what the future holds. I am excited at the prospect of the things that will be taking place. Since the Lord knows me intimately, He knows exactly what I need to hear to encourage me a long the way. This verse has been a mainstay for me my entire life, so it is fitting that this will be a constant reminder throughout 2012 that the Lord is faithful and right alongside me the entire way.
Moses spoke these words to Joshua right before he assumed leadership of the people. Then the Lord confirmed this again directly to him right after Moses died. Joshua’s first act as leader was crossing the Jordan River to defeat Jericho. While preparing the Israelites he spoke these words to them, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you.” ( Joshua 3:5 ). The land was theirs, it had been promised to them by God; they merely had to take possession of it. The only thing required on their part was to believe it would come to pass and then to be strong and courageous and take possession.
I also want to see the wonderful promises of the Lord fulfilled this year. I am excited to walk out the vision and mission the Lord has given me. The same words that He spoke to Moses and Joshua will be at the forefront of my mind. It will be a constant reminder to take courage because I know the Lord is faithful and will always be with me, guiding, directing and making my path sure and straight. May you also have a New Year full of the promises of God, taking courage and strength in our wonderful Savior and Lord.
Happy New Year,
Juli Camarin & JCBlog.net