Hi Brian!


The word for this week is "courage". One of the Hebrew words translated "be of good courage" is "`amats". Strong's Concordance says: to be alert; of good courage; steadfastly minded; fortify; make strong. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon says: to be strong; to be alert; to be brave; to be bold; to be solid; to strengthen; to secure; to make firm; to be determined; to persist in; to prove superior to. We find this word in Joshua 1:6-9:


6 Be strong (confident) and of good courage, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. 7 Only you be strong and very courageous, that you may do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you. Turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success. 9 Have not I commanded you? Be strong, vigorous, and very courageous. Be not afraid, neither be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.


The word "courageous" in verse 7 is the same Hebrew word! Then we have the Hebrew word "chazaq". Strong's Concordance says: to fasten upon; to seize; to be strong; to conquer. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon says: to strengthen; to prevail; to harden; to become strong; to be firm; to be resolute. This word is found in Psalm 27:14:


14 Wait and hope for and expect the LORD; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Yes, wait for and hope for and expect the LORD.


Also, Psalm 31:24:


24 Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for and hope for and expect the LORD!


Both words are similar, yet just a little different!  The first one is more of a preparation for defense against the works and workers of darkness. Being strong and immovable on the Word of God will protect you and your family from anything the enemy has planned to bring against you! The second word is more aggressive and offensive! Taking authority over the works and workers of darkness by speaking God's Word over every situation that comes up, fully expecting HIM to confirm His Word! That covers your family with protection, provision and safety and puts the enemy on the run! It has been very exciting to us to hear how God has worked as you and Kristine have stood together on His Word! We LOVE the airport testimony! Thank You, Jesus! Here is a song I really like! It's called "Take Heart" by Hillsong United:

Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!