Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. 1 Corinthians 15:58
The kingdom of God is one that has a reward structure in place. There are many instances in the Bible that talk about the rewards of a believer. However, there are two things that have the potential to rob us of our rewards in the kingdom of God: fear and discouragement. How do fear and discouragement rob us of our rewards? They cause us to make decisions that move us out of God’s perfect will for us.
There are two stories in the Bible that I would like to highlight. In the first instance, when the time came for Israel’s complete deliverance, the Bible says that “They were terrified” (Exodus 14:10). In the second instance when Jehoshaphat was faced with a “great multitude” coming against him (2 Chronicles 20:2), the Bible says, “Jehoshaphat was afraid” (2 Chronicles 20:3). In both these instances the Lord’s counsel and response to their fear was this: “Stand still” (2 Chronicles 20:17, Exodus 14:13). The Bible is very clear that the enemy has a foothold in the life one who is ungodly: “The wicked flee though no one pursues” (Proverbs 28:1). In other words, the wicked are constantly living from a place of restlessness. This week, let us decide to live from a place of rest; we will do this by resisting the temptations to fear or to be discouraged by anything.
Declaration: This week I choose to live from a place of rest in the Lord. This week I choose not to yield to any opportunity to fear or to be discouraged, and “in quietness and confidence” (Isaiah 30:15), I will have all the strength I need to overcome any situation.
Scripture: You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you. 2 Chronicles 20:17