Be Strong – Beloved Women – August 12, 2020
READ: “Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, declares the Lord. Be strong, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land, declares the Lord. Work, for I am with you, declares the Lord of hosts.” (Haggai 2:4 ESV)
TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT: It’s amazing how the right person’s presence can bring a sense of peace.
A parent in the room after a child is awakened by a nightmare, brings rest. A loved one in the room with one who receives difficult news, brings comfort. A rightly timed hug in a moment of distress brings release.
God told Israel to rebuild His temple. But, they tried that before, and failed. And yet, here they were again. But, God did not give a motivational speech to remind them of their greatness. Yes, He exhorted them to “be strong.” But, this strength had absolutely nothing to do with them.
For years, they heard stories of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who kept His promises. They knew the accounts of the God who sent 10 plagues to Egypt so Pharaoh would “let His people go.” They heard tales of Him splitting the sea, drowning the army, bringing water from a rock and manna from heaven. This God brought down the wall of Jericho and subdued nations. This same God downed a giant with a stone from the slingshot of a shepherd boy who would one day be king. This God said “be strong.” How? Because “I am with you.”
With “I AM” with you, being strong is inevitable.
PRAY: Lord, You have promised that You are with me always. I confess, I don’t always live as though that is true. Forgive me. Help me to remember that my strength is not based upon who I am, but Who I belong to – the great I AM. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
REFLECT: Take a moment to reflect on the various ways God has shown you who He is. Has He been a provider, protector, comforter, etc? Give Him thanks.
CONNECT: Find more encouragement from Kim Gillespie on Instagram @kimgillespie03.
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