Strong and Courageous: A Study in JoshuaPrøve

What does it say?

After the death of Moses, the Lord told Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. He commanded Joshua to be courageous and fully obey His law.

What does it mean?

The leadership of Israel was transferred from Moses to Joshua. God reminded Joshua that the secret to victory was to be rooted in His Word and promises. The message was clear: “Be strong and very courageous” because of God’s unchanging character and continual presence. Their years of wandering were over; God was fulfilling his promise to Abraham by bringing them into the land of Canaan. The Israelites received Joshua’s message with enthusiasm and repeated the Lord’s words to their new leader: “Be strong and very courageous!”

How should I respond?

God knows the battles we will face – spiritual battles involving fear, uncertainty, and discouragement. Just as Joshua needed the repeated admonition, so we also need reminders to move forward with strength and courage. In what area of your life are you asking God for victory? The first step is to be rooted in His Word and believe His promises. Jesus declared to his followers that He has all authority in heaven and on earth and He promised that He would always be with those who follow Him (Matthew 28:18, 20). How does that truth give you strength and courage for the “battles” you’re currently facing and give you boldness to show and share the gospel with others in your life? God’s character has not changed; you can count on His continual presence, and you can be assured that He fulfills His promises.