October 4 “Be Not Dismayed!” Joshua 1:9
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AVA SCOTT! Nanny and Papa love you “To the Moon and back…!”
***Due to the rise in COVID19 related illnesses, we are strongly encouraging the use of Masks, within the sanctuary, and to continue to observe “Social Distancing.” Together, with a faithful reliance on God, we will overcome this present challenge!!***
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:9)
The month of September, especially the last half, has been a challenge, physically, mentally, and emotionally! When I received the diagnosis of “Positive,” I was stunned and dismayed. How is this possible? I have been compliant with the protocols and the recommended procedures, in order, to avoid the misery. Nevertheless, reality is what it is! As I sat in the Doctor’s examination room, awaiting her to return with the discharge instructions, I saw that a memory had popped up on my phone and it was Joshua 1:9. “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Praise God! Even though, the circumstances and the struggles that were ahead, I have been instructed, not to “fear or to be dismayed!” I can testify with intensity, that the COVID experience tested my patience, my attitude, and my ability to control my reactions! A dear brother in Christ, continued to text God’s Amazing Word, to me, and every text was a message that I needed to hear, at that very moment! He reminded me that God’s Presence, His Power, and His Personal Involvement in my present situation, would lead me to focus on His promises and to claim His Power to overcome circumstances! Guess what? Two days after I was diagnosed, my Bride joined me in the misery. In the small hours of the morning, with our hands together, we prayed and called on Jesus to provide His comfort, His healing, and the protection for our families. During this entire ordeal, I have held tight the promise of God in Joshua 1:9!! Claiming God’s Presence, His Power, His Provision and His Grace, I am grateful to report that Annette and I are improving daily! Dear Friends, every one of us are going through some difficult times and we must “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” It is absolutely imperative that we “Stay Strong, Stay Focused…and to remember…THE BEST IS YET TO BE!