“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9 ESV).
When God called Joshua to lead Israel after Moses, He didn’t give him a strategy manual or a long list of instructions. Instead, He gave him a repeated command: “Be strong and courageous.” God spoke this four times in chapter one—three times positively and once negatively: “Do not be afraid or dismayed.” That last form helps clarify what God meant by strength and courage—it’s not the absence of fear but the refusal to give in to it, while relying on the Lord.
Every time God gave Joshua the command, He gave Him four specific ways to help him obey it:
1. Rely on God’s power (v.5) – God promised, “I will be with you; I will not leave you or forsake you.”
2. Remember God’s promises (v.6) – Joshua was to lead the people into the land God had sworn to give.
3. Reflect on God’s precepts (v.7-8) – Meditating on and obeying God’s Word was key to success.
4. Rest in God’s presence (v.9) – God assured Joshua of His constant presence.
Joshua could be strong and courageous not because of who he was, but because of who God is.
We often face moments that feel overwhelming, uncertain steps, hard conversations, or leadership challenges. God’s Word reminds us that we don’t need to muster up inner strength on our own. We can be strong and courageous because:
– God’s power is greater than our weakness.
– God’s promises are more certain than our doubts.
– God’s precepts give wisdom when we feel lost.
– God’s presence brings peace when we feel alone.
When we meditate on these truths, fear loses its grip. Today, instead of giving in to anxiety or discouragement, let us choose to anchor ourselves in God’s Word and presence.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank You for calling us to be strong and courageous in You. Help us to rely on Your power instead of our own strength. Remind us daily of Your promises when we feel uncertain. Teach us to love and live by Your Word, and give us peace as we rest in Your faithful presence. Wherever You lead us, help us to walk with courage, knowing You are always with us. In Jesus’ name, amen.