“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

There are so many things around us that could easily get us into fear and anxiety if we put our focus on them. When we give into these thoughts, we will find ourselves being overwhelmed with a sense of dread. Why is that? It is simple. The Lord never intended for His children to dread the future. Although we all may have times when we are tempted to feel afraid, we should never dwell on fearful thoughts or let anxious emotions control us.

God clearly knew that we would be tempted in this way, which is why He gave us so many precious promises to stand on to counteract fear. One of my favorite passages to stand on when I am tempted to be afraid is found in the story of Joshua. When Joshua was facing circumstances that could have easily led to fear, God reminded him to be strong and courageous because He was with him wherever he went. This promise that God gave Joshua is just as true for each one of us today. Regardless of any situation that we may be facing today, we can rely on the powerful presence of the Lord to give us the strength and courage we need to get through it victoriously. There is no need for fear when we lean on the powerful presence of the Lord.

If you are being tempted with anxious thoughts today, I encourage you to get quiet and focus your mind on the fact that the Almighty God is with you at this very moment. He is mighty and powerful to save. He has promised that He will never leave nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:8). He has great plans for you, and He has promised to care for you when you cast your care on Him (1 Peter 5:7). Rest in His love for you today, and let Him make you brave!

Prayer: “Lord, I thank you that you are with me and that you will never leave me. I thank you for your great power working on my behalf, as I trust in you. Lord, I thank you that I can be courageous no matter what life may bring, because you are my strength, my protector, and my provider. I trust you, Lord. You will never leave nor forsake me, and therefore, I can be strong and courageous! In Jesus’ Name, Amen!”