Faith Family,

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).

If anyone had reason for fear, Joshua certainly did.  Moses was gone.  God called Joshua to lead His people into the promised land.  Problem: other people currently "owned" the promised land.  There would be unfamiliar battles, unknown enemies, and even overwhelming odds.

In the midst of such a challenge God audaciously spoke.  Nothing like a familiar text in an unfamiliar context!  God called Joshua to strength and courage.  God called Joshua not to be frightened!  Note the grounds for such commands.  God didn't promise that the promised land would be battle free.  God didn't promise that the promised land would be complaint free.  And, God didn't promise that the promised land would be sin free.

So, on what grounds should Joshua be strong and courageous?  The grounds that the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.  The Almighty, Brave God of the universe is ever-present.  He is with you!  

So, the source of your strength and courage is not that you won't be exposed to the corona-virus.  It is not that the corona-virus will run its course and end.  It is not that the economy will recover.  It is the truth that your God promises never to leave you nor forsake you, (Hebrews 13:5).  He promises His presence to you Christian!

Practice His presence today.  Take the time to be reminded that He is with you.  Be still and soak in His presence even now.