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The heart of the song "Strength in His Presence" is to remind believers of God’s unwavering command and promise found in Joshua 1:9: _"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."_
This Scripture forms the backbone of Joshua's commissioning, and likewise, it serves as a timeless directive for us today. Let us look at what the Word of God says.
In the context of Joshua 1, the Israelites are standing at a pivotal moment in their history. Moses, the great leader, has passed away, and the responsibility of leading the people into the Promised Land falls upon Joshua. The setting couldn't be more momentous or daunting. The territory ahead is filled with fortified cities and fierce adversaries.
Joshua had served as Moses' assistant, witnessing firsthand God’s mighty deeds and the people's frequent disobedience. The task requires a leader who embodied strength and steadfastness, demonstrating unwavering trust in God.
God's command to Joshua to "be strong and courageous" was not mere encouragement but necessitated by the vastness of the task before him. It’s vital for us today to internalize that same directive because it comes from God, who understands our battles and strengthens us for victory.
Strong: The Hebrew word used here is "חָזַק" (chazaq). This term not only implies physical strength but encompasses being firm, resolute, and establishing oneself with confidence. It speaks to an inner fortitude that comes from God.
Courageous: This comes from the Hebrew "אָמַץ" ('amats), which denotes being bold, alert, and determined. Together with "chazaq," it forms a powerful admonition against fear and intimidation.
Understanding these words deepens our perception of God's command. He isn’t merely giving a pep talk; He is instilling a divine determination within Joshua—and us—to face any challenge without retreat.
Let us consider the themes of the song in light of the Scriptures.
### A. God's Command
"Have I not commanded you?"—This opening question shatters any room for fear or doubt by affirming that the command comes directly from God. When God commands, His authority backs every word. We find a direct echo of this divine instruction in Deuteronomy 31:6, emphasizing God’s perpetual presence and faithfulness.
### B. Assurance of God's Presence
"Be strong and courageous" is consistently tied to the assurance of God's presence: "for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." This is reiterated throughout Scripture. Consider Psalms 23:4 where David declares, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me."
### C. Adherence to the Law
The song also highlights Joshua 1:7-8, underscoring the importance of obedience to the Law: "Be careful to obey all the law... that you may be successful wherever you go." Success for Joshua, and for us, relies on fidelity to God's Word, highlighting the necessity of absorbing and acting upon Scripture (Psalm 1:2-3).
### D. No Fear, No Doubt
"No fear, no doubt" reflects 2 Timothy 1:7, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." Fear flees in the face of divine power and presence, enabling the believer to stand firm in any storm.
To walk in the strength and courage that God commands, practical steps must be applied:
1. Acknowledge His Command: Recognize that it is God who commands us to be strong and courageous. It is not reliant on our own strength.
2. Meditate on the Word: Just as Joshua was instructed, meditate on the Word day and night. Let it guide your decisions and strengthen your resolve.
3. Act in Faith: Take steps of faith even when circumstances seem overwhelming, trusting that God is with you.
4. Forsake Fear and Doubt: Replace fear with faith, doubt with determination. Declare God’s promises over your life, affirming His constant presence.
Proclamation: "I declare that I am strong and courageous, for the Lord my God is with me wherever I go. I will not be afraid, nor will I be discouraged. His Word is my guide and shield. The Lord is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation."
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your Word that commands me to be strong and courageous. Help me to walk in the assurance of Your presence and in obedience to Your commands. Cast out all fear and doubt from my heart. I entrust my journey into Your hands, knowing that You lead me in the path of righteousness for Your name’s sake. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.
This exposition on "Strength in His Presence" urges believers to dwell on the truths found in Joshua 1, to embrace God's presence, and to embody strength and courage through faith and obedience.
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