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.”

TO PONDER:

What a timely verse!  Moses has handed the baton of leadership over to Joshua, and has just died.  The weight of the task to lead God’s people, rests heavy on Joshua and so God speaks to him…”Have I not commanded you. Be strong and courageous”

It’s a command.  When life is overwhelming.  When the task to which God has called you seems to much. When you doubt that you can do it.  Be strong and courageous, God says.

Notice that the strength and courage is not found in oneself.  It is not found in your own resourcefulness or abilities, or acumen. But it is a strength and courage that comes from trusting in God.  It’s a promise God keeps on repeating, keeps on reminding Joshua. 

What’s causing you to be afraid or lack courage today?  In what circumstance do you find your strength floundering?  God is more than able and can do the impossible.  God will strengthen you with what you need to do what he calls you to.

There is a beautiful song we sometimes sing in worship called “Sovereign over us”

The first part of that song says:

There is strength within the sorrow,

 there is beauty in our tears. 

And You meet us in our mourning, 

with a love that casts out fear.’

That’s his promise to you today. God invites you to turn your fear into faith. Rest in this truth:  God will be with you wherever you go.  You’ve got this…with him.

PRAYER:

Faithful God, give me the strength and courage I need today to face whatever arises, knowing that you are with me all the way.  Amen.