Be strong and courageous

Be strong and courageous!  This command is spoken to Joshua 4 times in the first chapter of the book of Joshua, three times by the Lord and once by his officers. Makes it sound like it is an important command, doesn't it.  And it is a command from the Lord.  It isn't a suggestion or request.  The Lord commands Joshua to be strong and courageous, for he knows the difficulties that lie ahead.  Joshua has just taken leadership of the Israelites and he will be the one to lead them into the Promised Land.  They have followed Moses since leaving Egypt, but now they have a new leader.  And the Lord tells him to be strong and courageous.  He also tells him how to do this.  Obey the law (v.7), meditate on God's word and do what it says (v.8).  He then gives two promises-he tells Joshua that he will be prosperous and successful (v.8) and that God will be will him wherever he goes (v.9).

Now this command was given specifically to Joshua but it can apply to us today as well.  As I try to live a life of faithful obedience, I need to remember to be strong and courageous.  For by myself, I tend to be weak and fearful.  As I step out in faith and become obedient to God's direction for my life, for areas of service and for ways to witness, I need to remember this command - BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS!  For God commands this and he promises that he will be with me. I pray that each of us will be strong and courageous in our walk with God.