Romans 15:4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
Do you ever feel like you’re facing a coalition of problems? It seems like trouble presses in from every side until you can hardly catch your breath. Not only has the other shoe dropped, but every sneaker, every slipper and every boot you own.
Don’t lose heart. God, our ever-faithful God, gives us hope throughout his Word so we’re not overwhelmed.
When Israel began advancing into the Promised Land, every army in what is now the Middle East gathered against them. (Nothing new under the sun, right?). This huge coalition, “as numerous as the sand on the seashore,” must have seemed formidable, to say the least. But God didn’t abandon his people. The first words he spoke to Joshua addressed all his fears. “Do not be afraid of them.” And within 24 hours Israel defeated their enemies (Joshua 11).
In 2 Chronicles 20 we read again about a great coalition of enemies setting out to destroy Israel. Panicked, King Jehoshaphat cried out to God in what proves to be one of the Old Testament’s most compelling prayers for help. God heard Jehoshaphat’s desperate plea and answered with the same encouraging words he spoke to Joshua. ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God’s (v.15).
When the King of Assyria garnered his huge army to come against Israel, King Hezekiah did not despair. He encouraged the people: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him (2 Chronicles 32:7).
Paul wrote to the Romans that all scripture intends to instruct us, encourage us and instill us with hope. We may not be facing a vast physical army, but I believe the Word of God speaks to us in the midst of every kind of battle we face. If you are feeling overwhelmed right now, listen to the assurance God gave to Joshua, Jehoshaphat and Hezekiah.
Look to the scriptures for hope. And don’t be afraid! The same God who delivered them, will rescue you.