People are always looking for PERSONAL encouragement from God.
They want a “WORD”, a special impression on their heart, or a passage in the Bible that JUMPS off the page.
And somehow, when we see someone else get that, we think they must be SPECIAL, BETTER, FAVORED or more SPIRITUAL.
We tend to wonder, “How much do I have to pray to get God to talk to ME like that?”
Listen Up!
YES, we have to pray (talk to God) and read our Bible (letting God talk to us).
But just because someone ELSE gets something from God, doesn’t necessarily make them better.
Actually, God doesn’t WASTE words. He means what He says.
He doesn’t just walk around talking to hear Himself sound smart. When God speaks…it’s IMPORTANT!
Something’s Coming!
When God gives a word of encouragement, it means we’re going to NEED it because something is coming to challenge us.
He told Joshua TIME and TIME AGAIN;
• “Be strong and of good cheer.” Joshua 1:6
• “Be strong and very courageous.” Joshua 1:7
• “Be strong and of good courage.” Joshua 1:9
Then God breaks it out on him in Verse 11. “GO in and possess the land.”
We’re Equipped
When He encourages us to be STRONG, have FAITH, to STAND…we know that something is probably coming to challenge that.
God knows WHAT is coming and that if we rely and confidently trust in Him we WILL possess the land He has promised us.
Because He knows what’s coming, He stops to PREPARE us for it. He pauses to EQUIP us.
He narrows His view of the universe to include JUST US to be sure that we walk into the thing knowing that He’s with us. Just keep walking!
Don’t Stop!
So if you’re reading this today, maybe God is purposely breathing ENCOURAGEMENT in your direction.
That could mean that there’s a CHALLENGE, a BATTLE or something you didn’t see coming just around the corner.
He wants to make sure we KNOW that we’re ready and He’s with us.
Or perhaps you’re right in the MIDDLE of something?
Your Heavenly Father is reminding you, “I am with you IN this and THROUGH this. Don’t stop! Possess the land! I created you to have victory over this!”
Thank you for this word and your so right. We may not always say it but most of us are looking for a word or encouragement. As I go through my storm, reading this has truely helped me, Amen.
Just what I needed to hear. Thank you
You’re the best, Sherry!:)
Sometimes the ground may be shaking but as long as I stay connected to God by being diligent in my prayer, reading my bible and following his word…all things are possible!