“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

In the midst of disCOURAGEment, COURAGE stands in the middle. It dwells in our hearts and waits to be grown by God. It welcomes the offering of hope and helps us understand He is the GIVER of STRENGTH.

Jesus knows the source of our frustrations. He sees each tear that falls when we need to find relief. He helps us recognize why we need Him and holds us together when we’re weak. He reminds us how healing begins as we learn to TRUST in God and helps us find COURAGE to persevere.

Fear will rob PEACE that passes all understanding, if we allow doubt to squelch our HOPE. But FAITH will give us COURAGE to let God have control and handle what happens next. He will set the stage for what’s to come and ready us to BELIEVE He will take care of us and those we love. 

We won’t always feel ready to offer prayers of our praise when we’re feeling overwhelmed. But if we simply say, “thank you, God” from the moment we open our eyes, He will help us recognize His mercies are new each and every day. 

God is HERE and HE loves us. He IS with us EVERY day. The JOY of the Lord is our STRENGTH! Where would we be without it? He has a plan for a future that is GOOD. God WILL always take care of us and those we love. 

YES! Be strong and courageous, for the Lord goes with you. Deuteronomy 31:6

Dear God, thank you for showing us how to remain faithful when we’re weak and in need of strength. Thank you for what happens when we follow Jesus and welcome perfect PEACE. We’re so grateful for Your LOVE. It holds us together when life becomes difficult and trials test our faith. We will find hope in what is GOOD and open our eyes to the blessing of each new day. May we find gratitude and begin each day with praise for the One who WILL take care of us and those we love. Thank you, Lord. Amen