Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart, All you who hope in the Lord. Psalm 31:24
This verse recalls the words of God to Joshua and Israel to prepare them for the conquest of the promised land. Moses told the Israelites that he was no longer able to lead them and that God had told him he would not cross the Jordan river. Joshua became the leader and Moses told them that Joshua would lead them across the river, just as the Lord promised. Moses told Joshua to be strong and courageous. This was his way of encouraging Joshua and preparing him as he became the new leader. So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 We were made to stand firm and be brave. It is through the power of God that we are able to do this. Bravery is that quality of mind which enables us to encounter danger and difficulties with firmness, or without fear.
The Lord is our strength and He also strengthens our hearts. When we commit ourselves to God and take delight in Him our hearts are slowly changed. As we read the Word of God we don't just gain head knowledge. These words of truth are stored deep within our heart strengthening it.
All of you who put your hope in the Lord are likely to receive what you are hoping for because it comes from the Lord. Hope is so much more than a wish. A wish is for something not easy attainable; something that cannot or will not happen (like a pony or something that we will receive from someone else). Hope is founded on our belief and expectation aligned with the promises of God. Hope is also the confidence that when we put our trust in God knowing that He is more than able to give us not only what we ask for, but so much more.
If you are stepping out into something new and you are feeling scared or maybe just feeling afraid of the unknown in any other area cling to these words and say I am strong and courageous. This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord you God is with you wherever you go.