Joshua 1:9

Strength and courage. The ability to stand strong when faced with a scary situation. The courage to fight the battles that are before us. The knowledge that we have a God on our side who will be with us always. There is a command for us that is shared in the book of Joshua, and it is a command that I feel provides us with much hope.

Joshua 1:9 instructs us to be "strong and courageous". Whatever lies before us, we need to have strength to face that. And we can, with God's help. I love knowing that God is going to help me be strong no matter the battles that come my way.

Courage is important, as it helps us to stand strong when we know the good that we should do but we are afraid. When we see a need but are scared to meet it, the courage that God gives can help us step out in faith.

Joshua 1:9 tells us not to be afraid or discouraged. No fear, no matter what. No need to fear, because we have a God on our side who is stronger and better than anyone. A God who has everything in His control.

Discouragement can drag us down. When we feel that we are not good enough, we feel discouraged. When we are discouraged, we are tempted to give up. God is with us to encourage us, to push us on, to keep us from surrendering and giving up on the life that is before us.

There is instruction in Joshua 1:9 and there is a promise there. We serve a big God, and there is no need for us to become afraid or discouraged.

By Emily Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken