Be Strong – Yes, You Can!

Are you strong because you’ve worked at it, or are you strong because you decided to be strong?

The Bible gives us some startling jolts from time to time. This verse is one of those:

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9 (ESV)

God commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous! And, I believe, that is what he wants from you and me.

How to be Strong

First, listen to God. He commands us to be strong because we can decide to be strong. Believe it!

Then, decide to be strong. When we get our mindset into it, we can be strong. Tell yourself: “I am strong and courageous.” And remember that it is because you walk with Jesus that this is possible. When we decide we will be strong, we open our lives up to the power of God working through us.

Remember what Paul wrote to Timothy:

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands,  for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

2 Timothy 1:6–7 (ESV)

Finally, engage in strength training.

Strength Training

I love going to the gym and working out. The more I work, the stronger I get. The more resistance I push, the more I can push.

Spiritual strength training means we entire an environment where we exercise so we can become stronger.

The first exercise you do is to read and study your Bible. Spend time in the word to gain insight into the character and ways of God. Study his word and let it grip your heart and life. Spiritual growth will greatly increase as you spend time in the Bible.

The second exercise is prayer. Take time to pray, really pray. Set aside special time that is dedicated to being in God’s presence.

Third, worship with other believers. This will make a profound difference in your life. As long as you are able, don’t neglect this important activity.

Finally, and maybe even most importantly, obey what God tells you to do. It is when you are obedient that you find the power of God working through you. He will lead you on a path that requires courage and strength. You have decided that courage and strength will characterize your so life, so go ahead and boldly go where he leads.

Get Serious

Joshua needed the encouragement to be strong and courageous. This is your encouragement to be just life him. Don’t let up. Get on with what God wants to do with your life. Jesus is with you.