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 is a powerful call to courage and trust: “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.” These words, spoken by Moses to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, remind us that God's presence transforms fear into faith and weakness into strength.
At this point, the Israelites faced an uncertain future. Moses, their faithful leader, was about to pass the mantle on to Joshua. They were also about to face formidable enemies in a foreign land. Yet Moses’ assurance was rooted in an unchanging truth: The Lord Himself would go with them. Their courage did not depend on their strength but on God's faithfulness.
In our lives, fear and uncertainty can be overwhelming. Whether it’s facing a daunting challenge, enduring a difficult season, or stepping out in faith to pursue God’s calling, the temptation to shrink back can feel overpowering. But just as God assured the Israelites of His unwavering presence, He promises the same for us. Jesus echoed this promise in Matthew 28:20: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
To "be strong and courageous" is not a call to rely on self-sufficiency, but a call to lean into God's sufficiency. He is the source of our strength and courage, equipping us for whatever lies ahead. His promise to never leave nor forsake us assures us that we are never alone in the journey.
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Application:
When fear arises, take time to remember God’s promises. Write down Deuteronomy 31:6 and place it where you’ll see it daily. When you face challenges, declare it aloud as a reminder of God’s presence and power.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your constant presence and faithfulness. Help me to trust in Your strength and be courageous in the face of fear. Remind me that You will never leave nor forsake me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.