How does Deuteronomy 31:7 inspire us to trust God's promises today? Setting the Moment “Then Moses called for Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, ‘Be strong and courageous, for you will go with this people into the land the LORD swore to their fathers to give them, and you are to give them possession of it.’” (Deuteronomy 31:7) • Israel is perched on the edge of Canaan after forty years in the wilderness. • Moses, about to die, publicly commissions Joshua. • The charge is anchored in a promise God “swore to their fathers.” Every Israelite knew God’s oath to Abraham (Genesis 12:7). The emphasis is on certainty. Key Truths That Build Trust • God’s promise is sworn—His personal guarantee. Numbers 23:19 reminds, “God is not a man, that He should lie.” • Strength and courage flow from God’s word, not human optimism. • The commission is witnessed “in the sight of all Israel,” showing God’s faithfulness is meant to be seen and remembered by the whole community. Covenant Faithfulness on Display 1. Promise to patriarchs (Genesis 15:18). 2. Deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12:51). 3. Provision through the wilderness (Deuteronomy 8:2–4). 4. Entrance into Canaan under Joshua (Joshua 21:45: “Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.”). Each step shows God keeps His word precisely. Why We Can Trust God’s Promises Today • Same unchanging character: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). • Same pledged presence: “The LORD Himself goes before you; He will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:8; echoed in Hebrews 13:5). • All promises find their “Yes” in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20). If He fulfilled the greatest promise—redemption through the cross—every lesser promise is secured. • Historical track record fuels present faith. God’s past actions are previews of future faithfulness. Living the Verse in Daily Life • Rehearse God’s specific promises. Write them, speak them, sing them. • Choose courage: obedience often requires action before feelings line up. • Stand publicly for the Lord, as Joshua was commissioned before all Israel. Public witness reinforces private confidence. • Remember the goal: Joshua would “give them possession.” God’s promises aim at inheritance and blessing, not mere survival. • Lean on His presence during transitions—new job, relocation, ministry step—just as Joshua leaned on it entering Canaan. Supporting Scriptures That Echo the Call • Joshua 1:9 — “Be strong and courageous…for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” • Psalm 27:14 — “Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous.” • Isaiah 41:10 — “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Takeaway Snapshot God’s sworn word to Joshua proves that His promises are certain, His presence is constant, and His people can walk forward with unshakeable courage. |
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