Be Strong & CourageousSample

You’re Not Alone

“Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

This is God’s final charge to Joshua before he enters the Promised Land – and it’s for you, too. Whether you’re in a valley of anxiety or on the mountaintop of joy, God’s message is clear: Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid. Jesus echoed this in John 16:33 (NIV): “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

There are so many reasons Joshua may have had to be anxious. Think about the questions he might have had! What if God doesn’t show up? What if the people don’t listen to me? What if I’m not as good as Moses? Each of those anxious thoughts can show up in our own lives! Do I really trust God? What if people don’t like me? Am I comparing myself to that person?

It can be hard to remain strong and courageous, especially when obstacles come our way. In the verse above, Jesus makes it abundantly clear that in this life we will have troubles – not just that we might!

We will face obstacles and troubles in life, but one thing is clear: Jesus has overcome the world, and therefore no trouble can overcome us. It doesn’t matter how big the obstacle is – Jesus has already won. So do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Keep going. Keep trusting. Keep walking forward, and know that you have a guide with you – the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit. You’re not alone.

Questions:

• Is there an area of your life where you need to be strong and courageous?
• In what ways do you think you can be strong and courageous in the Lord today?