Be Strong and Courageous

As the torch was passed from Moses to Joshua, we get some great insight into what Joshua was feeling. It was an exciting time, a time of transition, a time of fulfillment, a time of great expectations...expectations that were now going to be asked of Joshua. For most of his life, Joshua had seen Moses as the brave leader of a stiff-necked and rebellious people. Now he was gone, and all eyes were on him.

God talks to Joshua in chapter 1.

"As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you." vs 5

"Be strong and courageous" vs 6

"Be strong and very courageous." vs 7

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord you God will be with you wherever you go." vs 9

After that, Joshua turns to the people and gives them some simple instructions. They reply as follows:

"Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you as he was with Moses. Whoever rebels against your word and does not obey your words, whatever you may command them, will be put to death. Only be strong and courageous."

Joshua needed some serious encouragement at this crucial moment. And God provided encouragement personally and through the people.

As we face a new year, there are limitless possibilities. Last year saw some incredibly difficult financial situations, as well as numberless personal trials. God only knows what is in store for us this year. But God gives us the strength and courage to weather the storms ahead.

Be Strong and Courageous