The Bible Course Sample

Joshua, the Call, and the Promise – be strong and courageous 

Reflect  

Fear. We can’t seem to get past it.  

Despite the so-called ‘progress’ of society, fear remains. 24/7 news access, scaremongering and social media contribute to an atmosphere of fear that fills our world. Fear has become the backing track to our lives. Whether it's finances, family, health, or stepping out into the unknown, we all feel fear. But fear doesn’t have to have the final word in your story …  

What was the cause of Joshua’s fear in the story?  

On the border of the promised land, Joshua knew it was far from being theirs. Moses, their leader, was no longer there and Joshua knew his were large sandals to fill! But God doesn’t call the equipped; rather he equips the called. He tells Joshua to be ‘strong and courageous’ (verse 6), to not be afraid (verse 9), and to take the land given to them (verse 3). Are these just empty words? God’s attempt at a pep talk?  

Joshua’s story shows us God’s words are never empty. He does lead the Israelites and God fights their battles. The Bible is filled with unbreakable promises that today mean we can have confidence and hope despite life’s challenges. 

What promises does God make to Joshua? What do they mean for us today? 

We often associate courage with the absence of fear. But true courage is not the absence of fear but the resolve to continue onwards in spite of fear. Courage means holding on to something greater than fear. Joshua had something greater to hold on to. And so do we.  

God promises Joshua His presence will go with him. He promises to never leave him (verse 5). He promises success through obedience (verse 8) and victory before the battle (verse 3). Promises like this mean with God by his side, Joshua will not fail.  

With God at our sides, we don’t need to fear. God has shared the victory with us already in his son Jesus (1 Corinthians 15.57). However great your fear, however impossible the task, you can have courage today. The God of the Bible says to you as he did to Joshua: ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.’ 

Respond 

‘God doesn’t call the equipped, rather he equips the called.’ How can this truth encourage you today?