Fear: The Forgetting of God part 1

In the book of Deuteronomy, we read of Moses’ second attempt at preparing Israel to enter the Promised Land. The first time had ended badly. The Israelites had feared the people of the land and disobeyed God. Forty years later, he was back. With him was a new generation of Israelites. How would they respond to the challenge ahead of them? Would they turn back out of fear too?

In Deuteronomy 7:17-21, Moses addresses the fear issue. In doing so, he provides us with a fear overcoming strategy that we can apply to our own struggles.

“If you say in your heart, 'These nations are greater than I. How can I dispossess them?' you shall not be afraid of them but you shall remember what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt, the great trials that your eyes saw, the signs, the wonders, the mighty hand, and the outstretched arm, by which the LORD your God brought you out. So will the LORD your God do to all the peoples of whom you are afraid.

Moreover, the LORD your God will send hornets among them, until those who are left and hide themselves from you are destroyed. You shall not be in dread of them, for the LORD your God is in your midst, a great and awesome God." (Deuteronomy 7:17-21)

Over the next four devotions, we will work our way through these verses. Take heart as we look at this passage of Scripture together. History testifies to the effectiveness of Moses’ counselling. This time the people didn’t flee. Their fear was conquered and they were emboldened to possess the land. By God’s grace, your fear can be overcome too.

In preparation, you may like to ponder this question. What particular fears are you facing in your life at the moment?

Part 2