Be Strong, Fear Not—God’s Promise Still Stands
Morning: Deuteronomy 31-32
Evening: Luke 1:1-23
As Moses approached the end of his leadership, he reminded Israel that God would never leave them nor forsake them (Deuteronomy 31:6). Despite their past failures, God remained faithful, leading them into the promised land. He instructed Joshua to be strong and courageous, for the Lord would go before them. Similarly, in Luke 1, we see Zacharias, a priest who doubted God’s promise of a son. Because of his unbelief, he was struck mute until the prophecy was fulfilled. Yet, despite his moment of doubt, God’s plan remained unchanged.
How often do we let fear or doubt rob us of the joy of God’s promises? Like Israel and Zacharias, we sometimes hesitate to trust fully in what God has spoken. But His faithfulness is not dependent on our feelings or circumstances. He calls us to be strong, trust in His word, and believe that He is always with us.
Key Insights
- God’s Presence is Constant – “He will not fail thee, nor forsake thee” (Deuteronomy 31:6). No matter what challenges we face, God remains by our side.
- Strength and Courage Come from Trusting God – Moses and Joshua were commanded to be strong, not because of their own abilities, but because God was leading them (Deuteronomy 31:7-8).
- Doubt Can Delay, but Not Destroy, God’s Plans – Zacharias’ unbelief caused temporary silence, but God’s promise still came to pass (Luke 1:20).
- God’s Word Must Be Remembered and Passed On – Moses instructed Israel to remember and teach God’s law so that future generations would remain faithful (Deuteronomy 32:46-47).
- God is Faithful Even When We Struggle to Believe – Despite Zacharias’ initial doubt, God still blessed him and fulfilled His promise (Luke 1:13-14).
Connection to Other Scripture
- Isaiah 41:10 (KJV): “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
- 2 Timothy 2:13 (KJV): “If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.”
- Hebrews 13:5 (KJV): “For he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
- Psalm 27:14 (KJV): “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”
Questions to Reflect On
- What fears or doubts have been holding me back from fully trusting in God’s promises?
- How can I be strong and courageous in my current season of life?
- Am I actively remembering and sharing God’s word with others, as Moses instructed?
- What can I learn from Zacharias’ experience about faith and patience in waiting for God’s promises?
- How has God’s faithfulness been evident in my life, even when I struggled to believe?
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unwavering faithfulness. Even when I doubt or fear, Your promises remain true. Help me to be strong and courageous, knowing that You are always with me. Forgive me for the times I have struggled to believe, and strengthen my faith. Teach me to remember Your word, hold onto Your truth, and pass it on to others. Let my life be a testimony of Your goodness and power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.