“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
— Joshua 1:9
This verse isn’t just for our inspiration; it’s a command! We are to be strong and courageous.
I know some people see themselves as naturally timid, but that’s no excuse to disobey God. The Bible says, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” We need to get on the same page with God and stop accepting natural dispositions that aren’t in alignment with who He has called us to be. We need to fight the good fight of faith, breaking the power of intimidation. We are called and commanded to step into a posture of strength.
I know this is easier said than done, but we can’t give the devil any room in our lives or make excuses for what God hates. We all struggle with fear, myself included. But the Lord is calling us to crush fear under our feet and be transformed into bold, confident people who are full of faith. This won’t happen all at once. It’s a process. But as we refuse to listen to the devil’s lies, we will progressively move from strength to strength.
Beloved one, there’s a banner of victory over us. Let’s fight each day. Then instead of running from the devil, he’ll be running from us! The hunted will become the hunter.
Rabbi Kirt A. Schneider, Entering His Presence (Lake Mary, FL: Charisma House, 2023), Used by permission.