Courage

Be bold.

Definition: Courage is strength to face fear.

Courage —> Amets (Hebrew) —> to be strong, strong, bold, alert

God commanded Joshua to have courage. It was not an option but a command. Within the command, God assured Joshua that He would “be with [him] wherever [he] went”. The source of Joshua’s courage was God. Joshua’s courage was sustained by continuously being in God’s presence.

Joshua was not courageous because he could do all that was done, but because God can do anything He says He will do.

Because of his courage, Joshua:

• Succeeding Moses in leading the Israelites and stewarding the Ark of the Covenant. (Deuteronomy 31, Joshua 1)
• Enters the promised land. (Joshua 1-5)
• Conquered the Canaanites. (Joshua 6,7,9-11)
• Settle in the promised land. (Joshua 13-21)

What’s At Stake?

Courage requires us to take a step of faith and obey. Look at some examples from the Bible and see what these leaders would have missed if they did not have courage:

• Abraham would not have a lasting lineage.
• Moses would not have led the Israelites out of slavery.
• Joshua would not have led the Israelites into the promised land.

The fearful report of the promised land by the ten spies kept them and those who did not have courage from being permitted to enter into the promised land. The ones who had courage, Joshua and Caleb, were permitted to enter the promised land.

Cowards do not experience the promises of God. There is no entering the promises of God without courage. Courage in the kingdom is not optional but expected. Courage will lead you to experience the promises of God.

Result of Courage

The Presence of God (Isaiah 41:10)

Reformation (Esther 5:1-8)

Victory (Joshua 6-11)

Promises Fulfilled (Joshua 13-21)

Question

Questions for God:

• Where have I entertained fear in my life?
• What areas are you calling me to be bold?

Questions for others:

• On a scale of 1-10, what would you rate me when it comes to “being courageous”?
• Do you view me as a courageous, bold person?

Application

1. Speak up today on an issue that you have run from. Tell a co-worker, call a family member, post on social media, etc.
2. Identify where God has called you to be courageous. Develop a plan to be bold and tell someone by tomorrow.

Prayer

• Lord, You have given me a spirit of courage. Your presence is enough for me. Be with me wherever I go. I choose to be bold. Amen.