God had chosen Moses to lead the people of Israel, a task which soon proved to be most difficult! Moses had not been adequately prepared to deal with a mob of hungry complainers, but he tried his best and sought the Lord for guidance. After Moses died, the Lord came to Joshua and said: 'Ok, time to step up! It's your turn to lead these people!' Joshua had walked along Moses as he led the Israelites, so he knew the task that awaited him, and he wasn't so sure he wanted it! However, the Lord in all his mercy, assured Joshua that He would be with him through it all. In chapter 1 of the Book of Joshua, the Lord reassures and encourages Joshua a half a dozen times in just the first 9 verses! In verse 9, God says, "I Command you to be strong and courageous!"  It was an order! If God says that He will be with you, you can be sure of it.

Later in his story, having assumed command of the Israelites, Joshua led them in a march around the enemy city of Jericho. (Josh. 6) Joshua did so, courageously, and so on the seventh go-round, the walls came tumbling down!

What enemy walls are up against you today? Where do you need God's strength in your life? Maybe it's a temptation you need victory over; an addiction that you need deliverance from; a habit that needs breaking. Whatever "walls" you may be up against today, God is with you. He is commanding you to be strong and courageous! So, claim His strength today and receive the victory - for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go!

Suggested Prayer:

Dear God, I become easily frightened of the walls of sin that begin to close in on me. I need your strength today to be strong and courageous and be able to claim the victory in Jesus' name! Amen.

1. Joshua 1:9 (ESV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Veronica B.