What Do You Expect?
Mark Gregston
We live in a time when so many are anxious for afraid. People fear they won't be able to pay their bills. The fear for their children or grandchildren. They fear failed relationships. They fear being "canceled." However, here Moses Joshua and the people of Israel that our "fears" are usually misplaced. The author of the book of Hebrews declares, "I will not fear; what can man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:6). Similarly, the Psalmist counsels, "I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?" (Psalm 56:11). Moses' counsel is no different.
In Deuteronomy 31:8, the Prophet reminds the people of God that they are never alone. Not only is God "with" them, but Moses reminds them that God "goes before" them-meaning He is their defense, like an army who protects its king or country. God never abandons us, or leaves us along, according to Moses. Thus, he counsels his ancient followers-and, by extension, you and me-to not get caught up in the things going on in the world. Don't be "afraid or troubled" by the chaos that swirls online, in the news, or at work. God is there. These things are all temporary. Everything will work itself out. And, provided you remain faithful, God will ensure that no blessings will be lost, but all good things will be yours-according to His timing and in His own way.
In the book of Jeremiah, the prophet Jeremiah is speaking to the Israelites at a time of great despair. They were exiled, living in Babylon, far from their homeland. Jeremiah's words were meant to offer hope and assurance during this period of upheaval. His message was not just for their immediate comfort but also to give them a perspective of a hopeful future planned by God.
This passage in Jeremiah speaks directly to the heart of encouragement, especially in the face of uncertainty and difficulty. It's a reminder that even when our current circumstances seem bleak or disheartening, there is a broader plan for good, for hope, and for a future. This can be particularly resonant for us when we face our own periods of doubt or when our path seems unclear. It's a call to trust in a greater plan that we might not fully understand yet.