It takes courage to live every day. Whether you’re worried about a hurricane bearing down on you or the economy tanking, it’s difficult to stay strong. Fear lurks around every corner. How can we hope to be strong and courageous given the circumstances surrounding us on all sides?
As I’m writing this post, I’m praying for the people of Florida. Many friends and family members are dealing with the effects of Hurricane Ian, not just on their property but on their personal safety. The aftermath of such a storm will take years to resolve and the emotional toll will last a lifetime.
Thank goodness, we have federal programs like FEMA and relief organizations such as the Red Cross and UMCOR with boots on the ground. Here in the US, we have safety nets to help us recover from natural disasters. Other countries, especially in the third world, do not. Relief may not come for weeks, if it comes at all. Where do these people turn for help in their hour of need?
Until June of 1990, my friend Shadrach and his family lived on an American owned rubber plantation in Liberia, West Africa. Shad’s father held a good job there and a home was provided for the family. This all changed when rebel forces entered the compound, looting the property and killing anyone who didn’t join them. When the workers and their families needed their help the most, the Americans running the plantation, left them to fend for themselves. This all occurred at the beginning of the fourteen-year Liberian civil war-a man-made disaster.
Shadrach and his family fled into the jungle to survive. They depended on their own resources to forage for food and shelter and relied on God to sustain them. Later in the war, relief agencies helped the Liberian people but at that time, no one came to their aide. Numerous miracles occurred which resulted in the whole family making it through the war unharmed. God gave them the ability to be strong and courageous during horrendous circumstances. He can do the same for you and me today.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
When the Lord spoke to Joshua, his mentor, Moses had just died. Joshua took over command of the Israelite people to lead them into the Promised Land. But the land wasn’t free for the taking. It was occupied by fierce warriors that the Israelites would have to conquer to enter it. God understood Joshua’s lack of confidence. Three times, He instructed Joshua to be strong and courageous and backed up these words with a promise, “I will be with you.”
So, whatever you may be facing today, take heart. When God says to be strong and courageous, He will give you the ability to stand firm in your circumstances.
Never forget, the Lord is with you . . . always and forever . . . no matter what.
