We are at our strongest and most courageous when helping others be who God desires.

Today’s Scripture: Joshua 1:6, NLT- “Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them.”

Joshua 1:9 has always been one of my favorite verses. “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.”

I have come to believe that I was drawn to this verse because I knew I was neither strong nor courageous. I was, in fact, afraid and discouraged. Do you think God knew we are this way if we are being honest? God did know that Joshua would question his own strength and courage when leading God’s people into the promised land.

Three times in just the four verses of Joshua 1:6-1:9 did God say to Joshua “Be strong and courageous.” Armed with the strength and courage of God Joshua then acted. Let us review also what God gives us in these same four verses of Joshua.

Joshua 1:6 shares the importance of our “why.” I have had leaders at work stress the importance of being in touch with our whys. Why are we willing to pay the price of our work? Most times we do what it takes in our vocations out of our desire to provide for our families or others.

Clearly in Joshua 1:6, God is telling Joshua he will lead God’s people. Who and why are we leading? In Joshua 1:7, again being told to be strong and courageous, Joshua is instructed to keep God’s laws if he wanted to be assured success. Do not stray to the left or the right, stay on point with God’s instructions.

Joshua 1:8 again stresses the necessity of keeping God’s laws close. “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (NKJV)

As we keep God’s commands on our lips and meditate on them day and night, THEN we find prosperity and success. God’s Word does give us strength and courage throughout as we read of stories, such as Joshua, where we are reminded that God is with us wherever we go as promised in Joshua 1:9.

God and His purposes for us are where we find true strength and courage. We do not have it in ourselves. But armed with God’s purposes and His people we are to lead; we are unstoppable and guaranteed the prosperity and success of God. God’s riches and purposes are more rewarding than any other responsibilities of life.

Be strong and courageous in doing what God is calling you to do and be.

Today’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for speaking to us through Your Word. As we keep Your Words in our mouths and meditate on them day and night, we come to know Your strength and courage. Please be specific with us LORD in instructing us who we are to lead for You. Thank You LORD for always being with us wherever we go. You LORD are our strength and courage. Your people are my purpose. Lead us now. Amen.