In life, we often face challenges that may seem too big to overcome. Whether it’s a change in circumstances, a difficult relationship, or a difficult task ahead, fear can easily creep in. In these moments, God calls us to be strong and courageous. He offers us His reassurance, as we read in Joshua 1:9: “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” This verse is part of God’s message to Joshua as he takes on the leadership of Israel after Moses’ death. Joshua was undoubtedly filled with uncertainty and fear. He was stepping into big shoes, leading a nation of people into the Promised Land, a land already inhabited by mighty nations. The task ahead was monumental. But God’s command to Joshua was clear: be strong, be courageous, and do not fear.
The first part of God’s command, “Be strong and of a good courage,” is not a suggestion but a command. Strength and courage are qualities that do not come from our own abilities but are gifts from God. When we face our own battles, we can often be tempted to rely on our own understanding or resources. However, God calls us to trust in His strength. In Philippians 4:13, Paul reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me.” The strength we need for the challenges ahead comes from Him, not from ourselves.
The second part of the verse, “. . . be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed,” calls us to turn away from fear and discouragement. Fear paralyzes us, while courage propels us forward. In times of uncertainty, we are tempted to focus on the obstacles, the “giants” in our lives. Yet, the Bible encourages us time and time again not to fear, because our God is bigger than any challenge we face. Psalm 27:1 declares, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
Finally, God reassures Joshua with the powerful promise: “. . . for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” This is a promise that transcends time and applies to us today. Wherever we go, whatever we face, God is with us. We are not alone in our struggles. In Isaiah 41:10, God tells us, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” When we are faced with fear, we can choose courage. Not because we are strong, but because our God is with us. Today, let us be strong and courageous, knowing that with God on our side, there is nothing we cannot face (Romans 8:31).