Know Courage
A SEW 2022 Daily Devotional - January 11th
Devotional
Okay, so… “Do Not Fear”.
It is mentioned around 365 times in the Bible. I think we can safely conclude that God thinks this command is doable. It really isn’t optional if you want to be free and live out God’s blueprint for your life. BUT HOW?!?!
Well, let’s start by breaking down the command. “Do not…” It simply means to “NOT do” something. (Genius, right?) But think this way… “Do not” is an action phrase that directs us to STOP “doing” (living) towards something. In this case, it is fear. If I am going to stop “doing” towards fear, I have to replace it with something.
How about Courage? Joshua 1:9 is just one of many scriptures commanding us to be courageous in the face of fear.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Wow! Listen to God tell Joshua to not be “absent of courage”. That is what discouragement means. So his answer to this is to give us a command to live WITH courage.
The space between you and the life God has for you is filled with “fear”. Joshua was afraid. God says, “You can’t run from it. You have to run through it. But I will be with you…all the way.” The command to be courageous is not without the company of God. Do not fear. Grab onto God and go take your destiny!
Meditation Points
Ephesians 6:10
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
1 Corinthians 16:13
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.