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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
At a critical point in Israel’s early history, during a period of immense change, uncertainty and challenge, they were encouraged to be strong and courageous. In fact, as Joshua – their newly-appointed commander-in-chief – received instructions on how to go about claiming the Promised Land, he was specifically admonished to be strong and very courageous. (See also Deuteronomy 31:6-8 & 23)
How could anyone expect Joshua and his people to exhibit strength and courage in the face of such obstacles? In the midst of a change of leadership, the people were unsure of just where and how Joshua would lead them. In the face of what appeared to be insurmountable odds, the people weren’t sure they were up to the task. In preparing to engage in a war of ideology and culture with the nations around them, the people were unsure of survival, let alone success. (A constantly recurring theme of the human condition.) Yet these words of encouragement were offered by a God who had been involved in the lives of the Israelis for some time and who had every intention of remaining so (See Joshua 1:5 & Hebrews 13:5,6); and were followed up with practical and indispensable advice and assurances of help.
God was calling on Joshua to step out in faith, responding with strength even as he felt overwhelmed by his circumstances; behaving courageously even when he was a little scared (the essence of bravery); setting an example for others to follow. By doing so he inspired them to accomplish unimaginable deeds of heroism and received from them support and encouragement in return. (Joshua 1:16-18)
Exhibiting strength and courage doesn’t necessarily mean we are fearless, rather it enables us to respond to the needs of the moment – in spite of the danger and difficulty – with poise and determination. Of course all this was contingent on Joshua’s steadfast allegiance to God and His will, as he was instructed to, “Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you, do not turn from it to the right or to the left (which was made possible by meditating on it day and night), that you may be successful wherever you go.” Joshua 1:7-9 These were words Joshua needed to be reminded of repeatedly (Joshua 10:25), as did the nation of Israel throughout their history. (Ex.14:13; 1 Chronicles 23:13; 2 Chronicles 28:20; 2 Chronicles 32:7) As long as they remained faithful, God blessed and led them to success and prosperity; failing to do so only when they refused to follow Him. (Deuteronomy 11:8; 2 Chronicles 15:7)
This formula for success has changed very little throughout the centuries. In our present times of uncertainty, difficulty and potential peril, we must find our strength and courage to respond in the Word of our God and the will of our Savior. The backbone of courage being confidence, which is gained through the knowledge of who we are following and understanding what He asks. “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled… A wise man has great power, and a man of knowledge increases strength;…” Proverbs 24:3-5 As, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:3 Courage and confidence epitomized by the statement, “The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1 (See also Romans 8:28-39)
Realizing our strength comes from Him is key. Paul claimed that when he personally was weak and had no choice but to allow God total control, then – and only then – was he strong enough to cope with the many difficulties he faced while accomplishing all that God set before him to do (2 Corinthians 12:10); which compelled him to repeatedly exhort others to find their strength likewise in the power and grace of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:10; 2 Timothy 2:1) Even when things aren’t going our way and we are doubtful of the outcome, we are to stand; doing what we know to do regardless of opposition and unsure of success. (Ephesians 6:13) For, “…he who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Matthew 10:22 Therefore, “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith, be men of courage; be strong. Do(ing) everything in love. 1 Corinthians 16:13 (See also 2 Timothy 1:7) Which again, takes confidence in the one we stand for; which entails knowledge of his ways, faith in his purposes and familiarity with his word. (See 2 Thessalonians 2:15-17)
“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:58
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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