What steps can we take to strengthen our faith as advised in Deuteronomy 7:17? Recognize Natural Fear “ ‘These nations are greater than we are; how can we drive them out?’ ” (Deuteronomy 7:17) • Faith begins by admitting the fear that tries to settle in our hearts. Acknowledging it positions us to confront it rather than deny it (cf. Psalm 56:3). Remember God’s Past Deliverances “Do not be afraid of them. Remember well what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and all Egypt” (Deuteronomy 7:18). • Keep a written record of answered prayers and past victories. • Revisit biblical accounts of God’s faithfulness (Exodus 14:13-31; Joshua 4:6-7). • Tell the stories to family and friends—spoken remembrance reinforces personal confidence (Psalm 77:11-12). Meditate on God’s Power and Promises “The great trials you saw, the signs and wonders, the mighty hand and outstretched arm” (Deuteronomy 7:19). • Take time daily to dwell on God’s unmatched power (Jeremiah 32:17). • Memorize promises that address your specific fears (Isaiah 41:10; Hebrews 13:5-6). Speak God’s Works Out Loud “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). • Read Scripture aloud. • Declare truths such as, “The LORD fights for me” (Exodus 14:14). • Replace negative self-talk with God’s word (Proverbs 18:21). Obey Incrementally and Expect Gradual Victory “The LORD your God will drive out these nations before you little by little” (Deuteronomy 7:22). • Take the next step of obedience rather than waiting for the whole path to be clear (Psalm 119:105). • Celebrate small advances; they are part of God’s strategy to build enduring faith. Remove Competing Influences “Burn up the carved images of their gods” (Deuteronomy 7:25). • Eliminate practices, media, or relationships that undermine trust in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Fill the cleared space with worship, Scripture, and fellowship (Colossians 3:16). Trust the Lord’s Personal Presence “The LORD your God, who is among you, is a mighty God and awesome” (Deuteronomy 7:21). • Remind yourself that God’s nearness is not a feeling but a fact (Matthew 28:20). • Speak to Him continually; ongoing conversation nourishes confidence (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Following these steps drawn from Deuteronomy 7 anchors our hearts in what God has already done and who He is today, steadily strengthening our faith for every challenge ahead. |
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