While there is great anticipation in moving from the wilderness to a promised land, the transition is not without its difficulties and ups and downs. This can open the door to discouragement. However, scripture continually reminds us not to be discouraged, even in times of transition. We need to keep moving forward and be encouraged in the Lord!
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.” Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
When the Lord says, “do not be discouraged,” it is a command, not a suggestion! Discouragement saps energy and clouds vision and judgment.
In times of transition, one of the things we need to do is gain the support of those who are on our side and want to see us succeed.
Before the spies lay down for the night, she [Rahab] went up on the roof 9 and said to them, “I know that the Lord has given you this land and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you. 10 We have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed. 11 When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below. Joshua 2:8-11
Rahab was a great encouragement to Joshua and his men. She confirmed that God was with the Israelites and that their reputation had preceded them. This led Rahab to support and hide them when they scouted the land. The Lord provided encouragement from an unexpected person. A prostitute recognized that the work of God cannot be stopped, so it is best to cooperate with and support it.
Are you in a season of change and transition? Are you moving from the wilderness to the Promised Land? Have you been discouraged lately? Do you have people who can encourage you along the way and confirm that the Lord’s hand is in this transition?
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay