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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 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 how they would respond and doubtful of 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 (“I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Joshua 1:5 – See also 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, acting strong even as he felt overwhelmed by his circumstances; behaving courageously even when he was a little scared; setting an example for the 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 their steadfast allegiance to God and his will, as they were instructed to, “Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you, do not turn from it to the right to the left, (meditating on it day and night) that you may be successful wherever you go.”; and prosper in whatever they did. 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 strength and courage being confidence, confidence gained in 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 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 8:35-39) For, “The Lord is the strength of his people,…” Psalm 28:8; as well as our refuge and an ever-present source of help during trouble. (Psalm 46:1)
Realizing our strength comes from Him is key. Paul claimed that when he personally was weak, when he had no answers, when he had to pull himself completely out of the picture and allow God total control, then he – Paul – was strong (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)
That takes confidence in the one we stand for, knowledge of his ways, faith in his purposes and familiarity with his word. Paul thoroughly understood this principle and as such admonished believers past and present to stand firm and hold to the teachings passed on to us which will then encourage our hearts and strengthen our resolve for good deeds and words. (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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