Following God is the easiest and most challenging thing we will ever do.

And the LORD commissioned Joshua the son of Nun and said, "Be strong and courageous, for you shall bring the people of Israel into the land that I swore to give them. I will be with you." Deuteronomy 31:23 ESV

Why would God need to encourage Joshua to be strong and courageous? Why would Joshua need strength and courage if He followed God's direction?

That was precisely why he would need those qualities. Those who follow God choose to be on the frontlines of the spiritual war, and they will face all sorts of unforeseen hardships.

Our enemy does not hate us, but he hates and fears God and will do whatever he can to lure us away from Him. Whereas God is patient, not wanting any to perish, Satan is patient, wanting all to perish, and works diligently with the tools he is given to accomplish his purposes. Hence, those who follow God will need strength and courage.

Satan is a master at making those with sight blind, those who can hear deaf, and spreading hopelessness to those who should have hope. He is the deceiver and the father of lies who can only be fought with truth.

A leader's only defense is to walk in the shadow of the Almighty, embrace and apply the Scripture's truths, and rest in the inevitable victory to come.

Following God is the easiest and most challenging thing we will ever do.

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