Deuteronomy 1:21 Behold, the Lord thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the Lord God of thy fathers hath said unto thee: fear not, neither be discouraged.
After 40 years, Israel is finally poised at the Jordan ready to possess the land that God gave. Moses speaks on the plains of Moab the book of Deuteronomy (meaning “second law”). He recounts the incident of the ten spies who brought back a discouraging report, so that the people feared, lost heart, and rebelled.
Now they have a second chance. Go in and possess the land God gave. They have the opportunity to respond with faith and courage. Many times in Scripture God, an angel, a prophet, or Jesus appears and says: Fear not. Believe that the Lord is with you to love you and keep you. Believe His Word. Believe God. Do not be discouraged. Because I am with you and give you victory, take heart. You do not have to lose heart, or be faint-hearted. You may keep the heart He gives you, for He is fighting for you to overcome.
It is easy in life to become discouraged, afraid, worried, and anxious because of the giant problems and obstacles in way of enjoying Life in the Kingdom. But because of Christ we may take heart and be courageous. Faith truly responds to God’ promise: Fear not!
Before embarking on the Conquest the Lord spake to Joshua [Joshua 1:6 & 7]: “Be strong and very courageous.” Then you will have good success [v. 8]. Joshua took heart from God’s Word and went on to Conquest. The obstacles in our way may sometimes be overwhelming, but fear not and be courageous.