Do you have a favorite go-to verse in times of uncertainty? The first verse I memorized as a new believer was Joshua 1:9.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage;
do not be afraid, nor be dismayed,
for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (NKJV).
This verse became my lifeline as I ventured out into the intimidating world around me. As an introvert, I needed to dwell on the fact that God was with me even though I might be shy and backward in my witness for Him. I found courage as I repeated this verse. Over the years I gained strength as I relied on Joshua 1:9 and other scriptures.
Several years ago, we moved to a new city. My search for a job resulted in rejections and hopelessness. Anxiety filled every part of me. As another interview approached, I looked to Joshua 1:9 and found Deuteronomy 31:6, a similar verse.
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them;
for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you.
He will not leave you nor forsake you (NKJV).
I read this verse in “The Message.”
Be strong. Take courage. Don’t be intimidated.
Don’t give them a second thought because God, your God,
is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you.
He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you.
What had been a general encouragement to me to remember that God is always with me, became specific. The verse in Deuteronomy added that the Lord is with me when I talk to people, and He promised to prepare my way.
I repeated multiple times the added explanations, “don’t be intimidated,” and “don’t give them a second thought.” I rejoiced in, “God is striding ahead of you,” and “He won’t let you down.” Prepared for my interview, I proceeded in confidence, because the Lord was with me every step of the way. Through the Word of God, I gained courage and met with a recruiter, completed a multitude of tests, interviewed with the manager, and secured the position. God prepared my way and guided me through the process.
Deuteronomy 31:6 was my go-to verse when I resigned that position and applied for another. I focused on this verse and believed the promise that God goes before me. After my interview, sure I’d messed up, I prayed for the Lord’s guidance. But when the offer came, I praised God that He blinded the eyes of my interviewers to notice what He wanted them to see. They saw a confident and intelligent woman ready to succeed in their company. God’s goodness amazes me.
When our focus is on the Lord and we call upon Him, He’ll bring us through those times of anxiety and uncertainty. His Word is a storehouse of promises which brings us strength and courage. He is always with us and prepares our way.
What is your favorite go-to verse when you face the unknowns in your life?
Photo by Aaron Burden - Unsplash