"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." (Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV).
If you have ever considered the Old Testament irrelevant to your life, think again, and reread the scripture above. We all face fears in our lives. Sometimes we just need a little encouragement. "Firsts" are always high on my list of things feared. Trying something new or facing unknown experiences can fill my mind with terror.
I remember my first swimming lesson... the first time I had to jump off a diving board... the day I took the test for my driver's license... my first date with someone special... a job interview... the first day of college... the days I went into labor... or perhaps the day you leave for basic training...
Perhaps your fear came from a recently diagnosed illness, an insecure job situation, or serious financial problems. Maybe the future will hold fear as you take your first sky diving jump! Or face the loss of a spouse or child. Or consider difficult decisions about your living situation or your health.
Scriptures, even those in the Old Testament, hold great encouragement for us, even today. The scripture above was spoken by a man ready to die, 120-year-old Moses. He was speaking to his people, preparing them to become independent of his leadership and dependent upon God.
God has given us powerful assurance that we do not need to be afraid. The Lord God goes with us, always. He will never leave us or forsake us. Go therefore; be strong and courageous!
Oh Gracious God: I lift my hands in praise to You! Thank You for being ever-present in my life. When I face scary things, I will turn to You alone, for You are the One I can trust to save me. Give me courage and strength to face the trials in my path today. For I know You are with me to the end of the earth. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
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