This week, I began my online book launch to introduce my first book, Created to Relate: Living Beyond Religion, which I am preparing to release on August 20th.

Going into this week, I knew that, just like with everything else in this book, Satan, the enemy of our souls, would oppose and frustrate me.

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He never ceases to disappoint. I have fought small frustrations, technological difficulties, physical struggles, weariness, and emotional and mental battles.

These things can stop us in our tracks, make us want to quit and drag us down. They can steal our peace and our joy. But thankfully, there is something else we can count on when we say “yes” to God.

We can count on His presence, on Him fighting our battles for us if we are willing to let Him, on Him being a place of rest for us in our weariness, and on Him being our strength in our weakness.

Several scriptures have been given to me over the years through this process to prepare me and to keep in my heart when the battles come.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NASB)

Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid; stand firm, and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:13-14 (NIV)

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (NASB)

And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast in my weaknesses so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. ” 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NASB)

This morning, as I battled my physical struggles and the downpouring rainy weather that can affect me physically, mentally, and emotionally, and I looked at my list, I took some time to draw near to God, to sit still in His presence, and to be reminded of these powerful verses.

I am encouraged. It used to take me so much more to break through these places, but as I read His Word this morning, I realize just how much more I trust Him. I don’t look to myself to keep me safe; I don’t look to my own abilities to fix things so much. I am tempted, but I hear the gentle voice of the Holy Spirit, reminding me that as I draw near to God and as I walk in obedience and live under His wings, I am safe.

I am reminded that no matter what happens in this life, I am with the Lord forever. The enemy can’t take that away from me.

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Obedience is scary, and the more we obey and experience the opposition of the enemy, which is not pleasant, the more we don’t always want to walk into it. Fears of what is to come can take over, and it can cause us to freeze or back away from doing what God has called us to do.

When we are still and soak in the truth of His Word, when we are reminded of His faithfulness to us when we have obeyed before, we are more confident in taking each step forward, no matter what might come.

As I complete week one of the book launch, get ready for week two, and continue to prepare for August 20th, the official launching date for my book, Created to Relate: Living Beyond Religion, I am hiding these verses in my heart, practicing being still, and committing to stand firm as I walk forward in obedience.

I am excited for all that God is doing and will do!

Is God calling you to obey in some area? Are you getting ready to take a step toward obedience and feeling fear and hesitation? I pray these scriptures encourage your heart and remind you who God is in your life and give you the strength to be stong and courageous to all He is calling you to be.

If you need prayer, I am here!

Heavenly Father, I pray that You would give us Your strength and courage to walk forward in the steps You have given us boldly. I pray Your perfect love will cast out all our fear, and we will seek you first, above all! Be our strength in our weakness, and may you be glorified in all things! In Jesus Name!