In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses reiterates all the words, laws, decrees, and commands God spoke to the first generation of Israelites. The second generation would be expected to follow the Word of God and advance forward to receive the Promised Land. Chapter 19, verse 1 reads, “When the Lord your God has destroyed the nations whose land he is giving you, and when you have driven them out…” God is telling the Israelites that He will be with them and how to set cities aside for refuge.
However, reading this first verse, I realized how God establishes a “two-fold” relationship between Himself and Israel. God is establishing a relationship that illustrates His authority and power with their calling, purpose, and assignment—ultimately, “godly living!” God’s character in His relationship with Israel is no different from that of the Christian believer today.
As a chosen nation by God, Israel’s assignment was to take possession of the Promised Land that was spoken in covenant years ago to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This covenant would come to fruition centuries later as Moses addressed the people with God’s spoken word from four decades ago. Verse 1 of Deuteronomy 19 says, “God destroyed the nations, and the Israelites drove them out.”
- God does the work; We obey, according to His Word!
- God will be with you; You are not alone!
- God gets the glory; We get the victory!
- God gives; We receive as we obey!
- God is a promise keeper, even when we fail to keep our promise!
To continue strengthening the Israelites in preparation for battle, Moses reminded the people of God’s dominion, power, authority, and promise. Deuteronomy 20:1 states, “When you go to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots, and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the Lord your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you.” God tells the Israelites do not allow what you “see” to cause you to become fainthearted or afraid. Fear influences our hearts, thoughts, and actions. But God wanted the Israelites to trust, obey, and follow His commands. And this is the same mindset that Jesus Christ has for us today.
Jesus tells us not to assume what we “see” is our reality. Yes! Your circumstance is real, but this is not your identity, future, fate, or life. God told the Israelites, “Do Not Be Afraid,” and I say that to you today as you allow the Holy Spirit to lead you – “Do Not Be Afraid!”
Israel would SEE according to the Bible:
- The Enemy
- Horses
- Chariots
- Army
For us, it could be:
- The enemy – attacks/tricks of deception
- Physical/Mental/Emotional – problems, hurt
- Financial instability – job loss, lack of resources, debt
- Relationships – People (family, associations, friends)
We “see” these issues and assume this is our reality, believing our situation will never change. BUT GOD! The circumstances you are dealing with are not forever. Everything happens and ends at an appointed time. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:” Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV Remember that if God delivered you before, He will do it again.
God reminded the Israelites of how He saved them in Egypt. God is faithful, He doesn’t change, and His Word doesn’t return void but accomplishes what He set it to do.
- God is Faithful!
“Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago.” Isaiah 25:1 NIV
- God doesn’t Change!
“But you remain the same, and your years will never end.” Psalms 102:27 NIV
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8 NIV
- God’s Word doesn’t return void!
“so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11 NIV
So, remind yourself daily that “GOD IS WITH ME” when you follow His lead. And when you fall short, He will correct your course! GOD IS WITH YOU! How do I know God is with you and me as Christians today? Because He gave His one and only Son for you and me.
- God loved you before there was a You!
- God saved you before there was a You!
- Jesus died for you before there was a You!
- God desires to dwell with You as You exist now!
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:16-17 NIV
So, no matter what it looks like—enemies, horses, chariots, or an army greater than you—as was the Israelites, whatever that situation is in your life, “DO NOT BE AFRAID!” GOD WILL BE WITH YOU! Let this weekend of the Life, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice, remind you that GOD IS WITH YOU!
~Be Blessed and receive His Peace in the Mighty name of Jesus Christ! Amen