Be Strong and Courageous!

At the commandment of the Lord, Moses had commissioned Joshua to be the next leader of His people. He would take Israel across the Jordan River and into the Promised Land. The Lord promised Joshua that He would never leave him nor forsake him. But how would Joshua find the courage he needed to carry out the tremendous responsibility that was laid upon him? Where would the nation that was under his command find their strength?

Verses 8 and 9 of this chapter reveal the source of courage: the Word of God! Our courage and confidence does not come from the strength of our arms or the numbers of our armies. It is found in the pages of Scripture.

Unfortunately, Israel did not fully obey the words of the Lord; but we are in the same position – not one of us can obey God perfectly. However, the Word of God points us the Lord Jesus, Who did keep the Law without any fault or flaw! And because of what He has done to redeem us and save us, we have true courage! We have no strength, courage, or confidence in ourselves; but the Lord's promises are for us today, too. He has assured us that He will never leave us nor forsake us, and His Divine presence is what strengthens us!