A Pregame Pep Talk

Moses is dead. God has anointed his long-time assistant, Joshua, as the leader. God commands Joshua to lead His people across the Jordan and into the land He promised to give them.

Joshua’s head has to be swimming. He is replacing the only leader he and his people have ever known. He will have to coordinate the movements of thousands and thousands of people, ensure they and their possessions are protected, provide adequate food and water for everyone, and, most importantly, lead the Israelite army into battle against unknown enemies. The future of every Israelite is dependent upon his performance as a leader.

Like a coach before a big game that’s sure to be pressure-packed, God gives a speech that reassures Joshua through repetition. God tells Joshua three times to be strong and courageous:

• “Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them” (v. 6).
• “Be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go” (v. 7).
• “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (v. 9).

At the end of the speech, Joshua is ready to lead.

What challenges will you face today? Tomorrow? Next week? You may not be sure, but God knows. Are you prepared? Do you have what it takes? If you rely on God, then the answer to each of these questions is yes. He has commanded you to be strong and courageous because He is with you wherever you go.

Questions for Reflection and Application

• Consider the last time you faced a challenge you weren’t sure you could handle. How did you prepare? Did anyone offer guidance or encouragement? How did you handle the challenge? Should you have done anything differently?
• What challenges loom on your horizon? Do you feel ready for them? What role is God playing in your facing these challenges? How can you rely more on God?
• How did Moses prepare Joshua for taking command? Is there anyone in your life whom you should be preparing for a leadership role? If so, how should you be preparing that person?