God's Encouragement

By Michael Youssef, Ph.D. After God’s promise of victory to Joshua, God encouraged Joshua through His Word: “Be strong and very courageous. ... Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful” (Joshua 1:7-8). True prosperity and success come from holding tenaciously to the Word of God. This doesn’t mean we won’t face setbacks or opposition in our work for the Lord. It doesn’t mean that every person we share the Gospel with will want to listen. But ultimately we will be on the right path when we follow God’s Word. As Scripture says: “Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (Psalm 119:165). God also encouraged Joshua with the promise of His presence: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). Even more than God’s promises or His written Word, we have the presence of God. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4). When we make our relationship with God a daily priority, when we consistently seek and listen to His voice, when we trust in Him moment by moment, then God will give us the victory. Prayer: God, thank You for the encouragement You give us through Your Word and through the promise of Your presence. Thank You for the victory You give as we trust in You. Amen. “You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry” (Psalm 10:17).