Moses was nearing the end of his life and he had some final instructions for the people of Israel. He reminded them that God was giving the promised land to them (Deuteronomy 1:8).  He reminded them of when they were right before the land, forty years prior and the Lord had said to them “Go and occupy …..do not be afraid! Do not be discouraged!” (Deut. 1:19-25NLV) At that time, the people freaked out and the only two men who had the faith to believe God would give them the land were Joshua and Caleb. Over and over, through out the Bible we see those words from God, “Do not be afraid! Do not be discouraged!  It makes sense because so often Satan, the enemy of our souls, tempts us with fear and discouragement. He wants nothing more than to get us so trapped in fear and discouragement that we can not move forward in faith.   I want the spirit of Joshua and Caleb, don’t you? I want to look at a challenging project and believe that with God all things are possible. I want to move forward trusting that what God has called me to do He will also empower me to do!

Let’s agree together that this week we will live our lives with the courage and faith that Joshua and Caleb displayed. Look at the challenges that come your way this week through eyes of faith.   To help you get started write these words on an index card and tape them to your mirror, “Don’t be afraid,Don’t be discouraged!” (Deut 1:19 NLV) Remind yourself this week to live by faith! When challenges come, stop take a moment and whisper this prayer, “Lord, I trust you. Give me the courage to move forward in your will.” Finally, when panic threatens, turn your panic into praise.  Praise God that He is who He says He is above your circumstances!