Be Strong and Speak Up

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 NIV

In a story titled “Runner spots county workers dumping trash behind Macon-Bibb park” published Tuesday by WGXA News, it was reported that a Middle Georgia resident said he notified county employees Friday morning after seeing workers dumping trash in the back area of a public property. 

Out for his usual morning run in Macon-Bibb's Carolyn Crayton Park, Lee Long said he began to notice something unsightly piling up… For Long

, to see county workers doing the dumping in the back of the park, near the softball fields, was unsettling.

"I was shocked. It's one of those things where Bibb County is really big on cleaning up illegal dumping, and to see employees do it themselves was a little disappointing." Before Long contacted WGXA News, he took the matter to Macon-Bibb County,

And you know, when it comes to seeing something wrong and having the courage to say something about it, the Bible commands all believers to expose the unfruitful and evil works and deeds of darkness (works and deeds that are increasing every day). Which means we must speak up when the Lord calls us to speak, no matter the hostility and hate we will receive by doing so. Which also means we must heed the command to “be strong and courageous,” something that is easy to do only when we remember and truly believe that the same God who went with Joshua into the battle is the same God that will go with us into the battle, fulfilling the promise to be with us wherever we go. 

So as you look around at all the darkness in our world today, refuse to be afraid or discouraged my friend. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never overcome it. Trust in that promise and be bold. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we have no reason to fear once we have placed our trust in You. Over and over again, You have proven yourself faithful and we know You won’t stop now. Help us to graciously speak up when we are called to Lord so that we can do our part in bringing the darkness to light. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!