Joshua 1: Be Strong and Courageous

Thank you for joining me on this adventure through the book of Joshua.  I will be going through one chapter at a time and writing about a verse that speaks to me.

Joshua 1:9 CSB, “Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”.

Moses just died, the leader whom they relied on.  Now it’s Joshua’s turn to lead the people.  This is where we are when the book of Joshua begins.  This verse stood out to me for several reasons.  First, these words were repeated right before in verses 6 and 7.  God was commanding Joshua to “be strong and courageous”.  He needed to be reminded of this, though, many times.  How often do we need this reminder?  I’ve heard it said that “do not fear” or “do not be afraid” is mentioned in some form in the Bible 365 times.  Coincidence that it is the same number as days of the year?  Everyday we need the reminder, not only to “not be afraid”, but the reason we are not to be afraid is, “for the Lord your God is with you”.  Whatever He’s asking of you, He will be right there.  Joshua is asked to do some pretty big things,  but God assured him that He would be with him wherever he went.  Friend, God promises the same to you and me.  He commands us not to be afraid because we have Him with us wherever we go.  Leave a comment and let me know that this was a needed reminder!  I know it was for me!!