Be Strong and of Good Courage

This easy-to-rehearse, highly singable anthem is ideal for recognizing the beginning of or transition to a new ministry, or for acknowledging God's goodness and providence in times of trial or need. "Be Strong and of Good Courage" is based on King David's words as he announced to his son, Solomon, that the task of building the house for the ark of the covenant would be his: "Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord God, my God, will be with thee. He will not leave thee nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the Lord." (I Chronicles 28:20). In addition, it includes a complementary passage, paraphrased, from the prophet Isaiah: "Fear not, for he is with thee; be not dismayed, for he is thy God. He will strengthen thee, he will help thee; he will uphold thee with his righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10) Text is traditional Elizabethan/King James "thee/thou" English; may be easily modified to contemporary language.