March 28 Deuteronomy 31:8
“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
This verse comes at a pivotal moment: Moses is handing leadership over to Joshua and preparing the people of Israel to enter the Promised Land. Naturally, there is uncertainty, fear, and the weight of the unknown. But God’s promise through Moses is both deeply personal and profoundly comforting.
First, “The Lord who goes before you” reminds us that God is not waiting for us on the other side of our struggle—He is already ahead of us, preparing the way. Second, “He will be with you” speaks of companionship and presence. God is not only ahead but also beside His people every step of the way.
The assurance “He will not leave you or forsake you” addresses our deepest fear—that we might be abandoned or face hardship alone. But the heart of this verse is God’s unwavering faithfulness.
Because of who God is—ever-present, faithful, and sovereign—we are told, “Do not fear or be dismayed.” This isn’t a denial of life’s difficulties; it’s a reminder that we never face them alone.
Devotion on Deuteronomy 31:8
“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” — Deuteronomy 31:8 (ESV)
Transitions are never easy. Whether it’s a change in leadership, the start of a new chapter, or stepping into an unknown future, fear and uncertainty can rise like a tide. That’s exactly where Joshua and the Israelites stood when these words were spoken. Moses, their longtime leader, was stepping aside. Ahead of them lay battles, unknown territory, and the weight of responsibility.
But then comes this promise—clear, strong, and steady:
“It is the Lord who goes before you.”
Not a man. Not a plan. The Lord. The One who parted seas and led by fire. The One who never forgot His people, even when they wandered. This God goes ahead—to guide, to prepare, to protect.
“He will be with you.” Not just ahead, but beside. You won’t walk alone. In moments of doubt, in the quiet of fear, His presence remains steady.
“He will not leave you or forsake you.” People may fail us. Plans may crumble. But God never walks away. His love is covenantal—committed, unshakable, eternal.
Because of that, we hear the gentle but firm command:
“Do not fear or be dismayed.” Not because we are strong, but because He is. Not because we see the way, but because He already knows it.
Reflection:
• What “unknown” are you currently facing?
• How does this verse speak into your present fear or uncertainty?
• What would change if you fully believed that God is already ahead of you?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for going before me and walking beside me. When fear clouds my vision, remind me of Your presence. When I feel uncertain, anchor me in Your promises. Help me to trust that You will never leave or forsake me. Give me courage to walk forward in faith, knowing You are already there. Amen.
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