Encouragers!

As we think about that old song, “Home On The Range” which contains the phrase, “Where never is heard a discouraging word….”, what a difference it might have made for the children of Israel to have had such a theme song as they roamed in the wilderness. It is amazing to me how many times Moses was willing to intercede on behalf of the nation. So many times they made Moses’ leadership position difficult. There was so much that could have worn Moses out along the way and the people should have done a whole lot more to have encouraged Him. Had it not been for Moses’ special relationship with God and seeking for His God to be glorified among all nations, perhaps he would have walked off and just left the nation to do their own thing.

Reading through the first three chapters of Joshua this morning, I was struck by a phrase which came up four times within the first chapter. Joshua had been chosen by God to lead Israel into the promised land following the death of Moses. Reading through the exodus from Egypt and the forty years of wilderness wandering, we know what Moses went through in leading a people who complained and rebelled time and time again. Joshua had witnessed that rebellion himself when the people first refused to enter the land following the report of the twelve spies. Therefore, as Joshua was being readied to lead the people, we can imagine that a lot of encouragement would help him get off to a good start. Therefore, three times in this first chapter we find God telling Joshua to “be strong and courageous.” ( Joshua 1:6, 7, & 9)

Having a steadfast faith in God and trusting Him to bring about all that He has declared He will is important. There are many examples in Scripture which ought to encourage us regarding the faithfulness of God. He is the One we can rely upon. He is the One Who always has our best in mind. Nevertheless, there is still great STRENGTHENING power in the encouragement we can receive from one another.

The fourth time we have the statement “be strong and courageous” it came from the people.
“(16) And they answered Joshua, ‘All that you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. (17) Just as we obeyed Moses in all things, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you, as he was with Moses! (18) Whoever rebels against your commandment and disobeys your words, whatever you command him, shall be put to death. ONLY BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS.’” ( Joshua 1:16-18 ESV)

When I read the statement that they would obey Joshua as they had obeyed Moses, my first thought was, “Uh, oh. How many times did they rebel against Moses?” However, I am certain as the people were speaking these words, they meant what they were saying at the moment and such a statement would have encouraged Joshua. Also, just like God had already done three times, the people told Joshua to “be strong and courageous.” The people were signifying they were behind Joshua, were ready to follow under his leadership, and would support him in that position. This should not only have served to encourage and STRENGTHEN Joshua as their leader, but also each other as they journeyed on together.

Perhaps at times we feel this life is like a marathon. It goes on and on and various things can cause us to become weary along the way. We need encouragement. Though the runner of the marathon begins to tire more and more with each passing mile, when they see and hear the cheers and support along the way, it encourages and helps RENEW THE STRENGTH to press on to the finish. I’ve not run a marathon, but I have known the experience out on the wrestling mat, trying to keep pressing on in the third round and being encouraged and STRENGTHENED by the shouts of my teammates and classmates in the stands. Even this morning as I took my long walk I was encouraged along the way by the honks, thumbs up’s, waves, and even a few words. I pressed on to complete the 16.6 miles.

Let us keep in mind how important it is for us to encourage one another. The encouragement we give helps to STRENGTHEN and instill a will to press on. As we encourage others to this end, we will find ourselves receiving the same thing through the mutual uplifting of one another.

As the Hebrew writer sought to encourage believers going through challenging times, he exhorted…
“(23) Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. (24) And let us CONSIDER HOW TO STIR UP ONE ANOTHER TO LOVE AND GOOD WORKS, (25) not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” ( Hebrews 10:23-25 ESV)

“Where never is heard a discouraging word….” Since life’s journey is marked by such varied experiences, let us be mindful of our part in STRENGTHENING the faith and resolve to press on of one another.

Have a great day JOINING GOD IN STRENGTHENING HIS PEOPLE!
Carl

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