| Series | Encouragement |
|---|---|
| Theme | Encouragement - FAAMALOSI’AU |
| Colour | Lanu Efuefu |
Scripture Focus: Teuteronome 31:1-8
Moses went and spoke these words to all Israel. He said to them, “I am one hundred twenty years old this day. I can no more go out and come in. Yahweh has said to me, ‘You shall not go over this Jordan.’ Yahweh your God himself will go over before you. He will destroy these nations from before you, and you shall dispossess them. Joshua will go over before you, as Yahweh has spoken. Yahweh will do to them as he did to Sihon and to Og, the kings of the Amorites, and to their land; whom he destroyed. Yahweh will deliver them up before you, and you shall do to them according to all the commandment which I have commanded you. Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or scared of them; for Yahweh your God himself is who goes with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you.” Moses called to Joshua, and said to him in the sight of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land which Yahweh has sworn to their fathers to give them; and you shall cause them to inherit it. Yahweh himself is who goes before you. He will be with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be discouraged.”
- Deuteronomy 31:1-8 (WEB)
Study:
The passage from Deuteronomy 31:1-8 reveals a moment of transition for the Israelites. Moses, at the end of his life and leadership, encourages the people and Joshua, his successor, with words of strength and courage. God promises to go before them and never fail or forsake them, assuring victory and inheritance of the promised land. This passage teaches us about trusting God’s presence and faithfulness, especially when facing new and daunting challenges. The command to "be strong and courageous" is repeated, emphasizing that fear and discouragement have no place for those who trust in God's abiding presence.
Application:
Today, we also face seasons of uncertainty and change where discouragement can easily take root. Like Joshua and the Israelites, we are called to step forward with strength and courage, trusting that God goes before us. God’s promise to never fail or forsake us is just as certain now as it was then. When challenges arise—whether in personal struggles, work, relationships, or faith—we can remember that God is with us, leading and supporting us every step of the way. We are encouraged to stand firm, resist fear, and refuse discouragement because God’s presence is our greatest source of peace and confidence.
Reflection Questions:
- In what areas of your life do you feel tempted to be discouraged or afraid?
- How can you practically remind yourself that God goes before you and will not forsake you?
- What steps can you take to “be strong and courageous” in your current challenges?
- How does the knowledge of God’s faithfulness change your perspective on fear and discouragement?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unfailing presence and faithfulness. Help me to be strong and courageous in every situation, trusting that You go before me and will never fail or forsake me. When discouragement tries to overwhelm me, remind me of Your promises and fill me with Your peace. May I walk forward in confidence and hope, knowing You are with me always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tags: encouragement, courage, faith, God’s presence, Deuteronomy 31, strength, not discouraged, Bible study, Christian encouragement, trust in God