Lesson: Be Strong and Courageous – A Study of Joshua 1:9
Scripture Focus
"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." — Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Backstory
The story of Joshua begins as the Israelites stand on the threshold of the Promised Land. Moses, their great leader, has died, and Joshua is appointed as his successor. The responsibility before him is enormous: lead an entire nation into unknown territory, conquer strong cities, and fulfill God’s promise. Doubt and fear could easily have overwhelmed Joshua, but instead, God addresses him directly with the charge found in Joshua 1:9. This is not only a command, but a reassurance—the same God who guided Moses would be with Joshua every step of the way.
Three Key Takeaways
God Calls Us to Courage: God knew Joshua was facing a daunting task. He calls each of us to stand strong, even when what lies ahead seems overwhelming.
We’re Not Meant to Do It Alone: The promise, "the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go," is a reminder that God never sends us into a battle by ourselves.
Discouragement Is Natural, But Not Definite: Fear and discouragement will come, but God commands us not to let them rule our hearts because His presence changes everything.
Three Ways to Apply Joshua 1:9 to Daily Life
Start Each Day With a Courage Declaration: Begin your morning reciting Joshua 1:9 aloud, reminding yourself that strength and courage are yours through God.
Face Challenges With Prayer: Whenever anxiety or discouragement creeps in, pause and pray, asking God for the strength and courage to move forward.
Encourage Others: When you see someone else struggling, share this verse with them. Being a source of courage to others multiplies faith in the community.
Good morning, MY FELLOW BELIEVER!!!!!
Today, I want to talk to you about courage—a courage that comes not from ourselves, but from the presence and promise of God. Let’s listen again to the words spoken to Joshua as he stood on the edge of the unknown:
“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.” (Joshua 1:9, NIV)
Joshua faced a daunting challenge—the loss of Moses, the weight of leading God’s people, and the uncertainty of entering a new land. Perhaps you, too, are standing at the edge of your own unknown. Maybe it’s a new job, a broken relationship, an illness, or a dream that feels too big to claim. Fear and discouragement can feel overwhelming.
But notice what God says—not gently, but as a command: Be strong. Be courageous. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged. Why? Not because Joshua was strong enough, or fearless enough, or never felt anxiety. No—because the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
God’s presence is the antidote to our fears. It’s the reason we can take the next step, even trembling, even unsure. It’s the promise that we are never alone, no matter where the journey leads. God doesn’t only command us to be brave—He empowers us through His presence.
Today, whatever you are facing, hear God’s voice as He spoke to Joshua: You are not forgotten. You are not alone. Be strong. Be courageous. For God is with you.
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