Be Strong and Courageous

"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

Here are some recent headlines from newspapers & Internet sources:

America faces food rationing?

Oil nears $118 per barrel – could top $125 soon!

Gas at all time high

Dollar continues slide against Euro

Economic Recession already here

After-shocks continue from mid-west quake

More troops killed in car-bomb in Iraq

Housing crisis deepens

These headlines are typical of the news these days. While these headlines are nothing new, they represent constant themes that are before the American public. Taken as a whole these headlines present an attitude of concern and worry. They indicate an undercurrent that is increasing in our culture – gloom and doom. These themes work their way into the lives of our families. While they don’t represent imminent danger, they contribute to a general mood of discouragement.

As husbands and fathers, you may or may not be bothered by these headlines. You may just dismiss them as media hype. However, our culture is discouraged and even fearful of these warnings. Our children interact with other children whose families may “stressed” by the daily onslaught of depressing headlines.

God’s words to Joshua are the only true source of hope and courage in this world. Without trusting in God’s sovereign control the barrage of worrisome headlines does provide reasons for discouragement. This is important for us to communicate to those around us. The reason things will not fall apart is that God is in control—not because we have the good sense to recognize media sensationalism.

Strength and courage come from God. The world is intimidating. It is important to take time to encourage your family with the truth of Joshua 1:9. We can be strong and courageous because God is with us. Make a point to take a headline from the news and examine it with your family in light of God’s providence and control. Help your families be encouraged by the truth of Scripture.

Also, examine your own heart in light of this changing world and culture. Some of you, perhaps, are facing downsizing at your job. Some are concerned about rising housing and fuel prices. Food prices are going up. In these situations, fear can show itself by increasing irritation and shortness with others. You may find yourself doing the finances over and over again in your mind. Perhaps the headlines are beginning to take their toll, now that you have thought about it. The answer is still the same. Be strong and courageous for I am with you!

• What type of issues concern you most for the future? Economic? Morality? Terrorism?
• What issues tempt you to worry and anxiety?
• What will you do to replace fear with courage and strength?