Good Morning Everyone,
Our theme for this month: “Worry”
Our Bible verse for today: “Be strong and courageous …” “Above all, be strong and very courageous …” “Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:6; 7; 9 (HCSB)
Our thought for today: “God is with you, so be strong and courageous.”
The book “Resilience” by former Navy Seal Eric Greitens, is actually a compilation of letters he wrote to a fellow former Navy Seal who was struggling with PTSD and having great difficulty dealing with life at home.
In addition to having been a Navy Seal, Eric is a Rhodes Scholar, a student of philosophy, and he has extensive experience in humanitarian relief work. So when this friend of his was struggling with deep depression, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and numerous broken relationships, Eric wrote him a series of letters designed to help his friend think through and come to terms with the demons which were tormenting him.
In one letter Eric addressed the fact that his friend was having an identity crisis and therefore felt worthless and believed he had nothing to offer anyone. Since he was no longer a Navy Seal, he didn’t know what he was supposed to do with his life. One piece of advice Eric offered was:
“People need you to be strong. Your family, your community, your country. So envision yourself as strong. Remind yourself that you are strong. Become strong.”
By “strong” Eric wasn’t necessarily or exclusively referring to physical strength. He was also talking about mental and emotional strength; he was talking about courage and strength of conviction; he was talking about the strength to persevere through difficult times.
In Joshua chapter one Joshua received similar advice from the Lord – and for much the same reasons. Joshua was facing a change of circumstances which brought with it terrific challenges and lots of uncertainty. Additionally, many people were depending on him. And so, he could easily have succumbed to worry and doubt. But God reassured Him repeatedly. “Be strong and courageous Joshua!” “The Lord your God is with you wherever you go!”
That promise is for you and me too. God is with us wherever we go. In fact, He is already ahead of us. He has gone ahead of us and prepared the way so when you and I arrive in the future, God will already be there waiting for us. So be strong! Be courageous! The Lord your God is with you!
God Bless,
Pastor Jim
Oak Hill Baptist Church 