Dr. Jonas Salk, one of the world’s foremost microbiologists, was the first person to discover and develop a vaccine against polio. It was not an easy process and took years.
Once he said, “Ideas come to me as they do to everyone else. But I take each one of them seriously, consider them carefully, examine them thoroughly, and study them endlessly. I do not allow anyone to discourage me, though many try.”
For the Christian, discouragement overcomes us when we are no longer aware of the presence of God in our lives. We become unconcerned for the plans He has for our lives, refuse to believe that He will provide for our every need, and doubt that He will fulfill the promises He has made in His Word.
God told Moses to “be strong and very courageous...to study and obey His law...” and then, and only then, could he count on being successful. Why? Because then, and only then, could he rely on God to be with him, protect him, and empower him wherever he went.
God wanted Moses to know, understand, believe, and accept the fact that it was imperative for him to be obedient and follow “all that is written.” Additionally, he wanted him to know that faithfulness to God is not a guarantee that he would be successful in the “eyes” of the world. Why? God defines “success” differently than the world does. God did, however, assure him that if he was faithful to the challenges He set before, he would be successful in His sight. In the end, it is God’s blessings and approval that define real success.
Prayer: Thank You, Heavenly Father, for assuring us of Your presence and power in our lives if we obey Your Word. Give us strength and courage as we follow You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
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