If we look out at the world, there is a lot to be fearful of. Gas prices, groceries prices insecurities, faults, flaws, mental health issues, wars, sickness, disease, and the list goes on. In this verse, Joshua was commanded by God multiple times to be courageous and strong to possess the land which God promised the people of Israel. This verse can apply to us also, that we are to be strong and courageous. In order to reach others with the love of Christ and to serve our neighbors in this world. When we are weak and afraid, let us look to God and His Word for strength.

We live in a day and time where getting people back is the right thing to do. "They ain't gonna talk to me like that!" "Give them a piece of your mind!" "Be petty right back to them!" And the list goes on. Of course, the wisdom of the Bible offers us a better way. We are NOT to repay evil for evil. Children of God are told to overcome evil with by doing good. We are to wish blessings on all, not a curse. We extend the love and grace of good to everyone, including our enemies. This doesn't mean that we accept mental, verbal, or physical abuse. But it does mean that we are to overcome evil by doing good as much as we can. When we overcome evil with God, we prove that God's love is on the earth.

Thank the Lord for His patience with us. If you are like me, you constantly mess up and need God's grace. It is on us daily to respond to God's love with a broken heart, wanting to do and live right. God's goodness leads us to change our hearts and minds, to better reflect Jesus Christ. Each day is a new day to trust in God and in His love for us.

It is said that we are the average of our closest friends. And the truth is that most of us are average because of our average associations. We have to analyze our friendships and other relationships. Our relationships can keep us stuck or how to propel us into greatness. And it is not good to force a relationship that is not meant to be. So let us carefully analyze our relationships. Because the quality of our lives will depend on those who we build relationships and fellowships with.

The goal of each believer is to live out Jesus Christ's example on the earth. This is not easy because we have to content with the evil in our own hearts and minds. It will take discipline and grace to do this. And God's Spirit will fill in the gaps where we lack. Let us do what we can to represent Jesus well on the earth.