October 17

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

While I studied for my Masters In Divinity I learned a very helpful tool. How to apply knowledge centuries old to a current situation. It seems in Deuteronomy Israel had gotten scared again. Once before they became full of fear and refused to fight for the land God said belonged to them. As a result, they spent years wandering in the wilderness. OMG! That sounds familiar! Well anywho, the land that was promised to them was occupied by mean and horrible people. And adding to Israel’s fear was the large army. I’ve had to face a few giants and found myself shaking in me boots! But! God, being God, gave Israel and Joshua another chance to claim what He freely gave them. So to ensure they didn’t run scared again God gave them a pep talk. He assured them several times He would be with them. A practice He continues today. Let’s Pray!

PRAYER

Lord, forgive me. I’m only human. As I read the above scripture I thought about all my missed opportunities because of fear. Then I thought about the opportunities that returned. My life is richly blessed because I entered into the land you reserved for me and my family. I thank you for those blessings each and everyday. I pray you continue to be with me and never forsake me. Always giving me your courage to secure and keep the blessings you said were mine. Asking you to continually do the same for my children, their children and our descendants. Amen