Joshua 1:9 – “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.”
Today’s verse emphasizes God’s words to Joshua when the mantle of leadership fell on his shoulders after Moses’ death. One can only imagine the myriad thoughts that must have been running through Joshua’s head. He had some pretty big shoes to fill, and he would have been pretty unsure of himself. He knew leading the Israelites was not a small job, considering the amount of trouble they had given Moses.
But God understood Joshua’s hesitation and urged him to be brave. In fact, God commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous. But they were not merely words. God urged Joshua not to be afraid or discouraged because God Himself would be with him wherever he went. Joshua didn’t have to undertake his responsibility alone, and neither do we.
God wants us to be brave in our lives, and this might look different for each of us. Whether you are entering a new phase of life or have a dreaded phone call to make… If you’re stuck with a seemingly impossible task, or facing a relationship struggle, God reminds you to be brave. Our strength and courage does not come from within ourselves – it comes from God! So next time you find yourself anxious about something, remember to be brave. God Himself is with you; you have nothing to fear.
