Be Strong and Courageous: Trusting in God's Promises Joshua 1:9
Introduction:
In the journey of life, we often face daunting challenges and uncertainties that can cause us to fear and doubt. Yet, as believers, we are called to be strong and courageous, trusting in the promises of God.
In times of uncertainty and fear, our faith in God's presence becomes our anchor. As we delve into Scripture, we uncover a tapestry of promises that assure us of His constant companionship and unyielding support.
Today, let us explore Joshua 1:9 and some other key Bible verses together to discover the courage that comes from trusting in God's unwavering presence.
Point 1: God's Command to Be Strong and Courageous
"This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, NLT)
In this verse, God commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, assuring him of His constant presence and guidance. The command to be strong and courageous is not based on Joshua's own strength but on the promise of God's unfailing support.
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." (Deuteronomy 31:6, NIV)
In Deuteronomy 31:6, Moses encourages the Israelites, reminding them of God's steadfast presence as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. This command resonates with believers today, urging us to stand firm in the face of adversity, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10, ESV)
Isaiah 41:10 reassures us of God's protection and strength in times of trouble. As we encounter challenges, we can find courage in the knowledge that God is our ever-present help, upholding us with His righteous hand.
"God's command to be strong and courageous is not a call to self-reliance but an invitation to trust in His unwavering faithfulness. When we stand on His promises, we can face any challenge with confidence." - Charles Spurgeon
Point 2: Overcoming Fear with Faith
"Do not be afraid or discouraged." (Joshua 1:9, NLT)
God's command to Joshua echoes throughout Scripture, reminding believers to cast aside fear and discouragement. Fear is a natural human response, but faith enables us to overcome it. By fixing our eyes on God's promises, we can confront our fears with unwavering confidence.
Psalm 56:3 (NIV): "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you."
In Psalm 56:3, we witness the psalmist's declaration of trust in God, even in the face of fear and uncertainty. The psalmist acknowledges human vulnerability, recognising that fear is a natural emotion that can arise in challenging circumstances. However, instead of succumbing to fear, the psalmist chooses to place their trust in God. This verse encapsulates the essence of biblical faith – a confident reliance on God's character and promises, even amidst trials and tribulations.
Isaiah 43:1 (NIV): "But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: 'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.'"
Isaiah 43:1 echoes the theme of trust and assurance in God's faithfulness. Here, the prophet Isaiah delivers a message of comfort and reassurance to the people of Israel. God reminds them of His sovereign power as their Creator and Redeemer. He assures them of His personal care and protection, calling them by name and claiming them as His own. In the face of uncertainty and adversity, God's people are encouraged to trust in His unfailing love and providence.
2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV): "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline."
In 2 Timothy 1:7, the apostle Paul reminds Timothy of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Paul encourages Timothy to embrace boldness and courage, rather than timidity, knowing that the Spirit empowers believers with strength, love, and self-discipline. This verse underscores the supernatural resources available to God's people through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. Instead of being paralysed by fear, believers are equipped to face challenges with confidence and resolve, relying on the Spirit's guidance and empowerment.
These verses offer profound insights into the nature of faith and trust in God. They remind us that fear is a common human experience, but it does not have to dictate our response. Instead of allowing fear to control us, we can choose to place our trust in God's character and promises. We can find comfort and strength in knowing that God is with us, guiding and sustaining us through every trial. Moreover, the presence of the Holy Spirit empowers us to live boldly and courageously, demonstrating God's love and self-discipline in all areas of our lives.
"Fear is the enemy of faith, but faith is the antidote to fear. When we trust in God's promises, fear loses its grip on our hearts, and we can walk boldly in His strength." - Max Lucado
Point 3: The Assurance of God's Presence
"For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, NLT)
The promise of God's presence is the foundation of our courage and strength. Regardless of the challenges we face, we can take comfort in the assurance that God is always with us. His presence goes before us, surrounds us, and upholds us, empowering us to press forward with confidence.
"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4, NIV)
Psalm 23:4 paints a vivid picture of God's comforting presence, even in the midst of life's trials. Just as a shepherd cares for his sheep, God watches over us, guiding and protecting us through every valley and storm.
Matthew 28:20 (NIV): "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
In Matthew 28:20, we find the reassuring words of Jesus Himself. Just before ascending into heaven, Jesus commissions His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. In doing so, He promises them His enduring presence. This promise extends not only to the disciples but to all believers throughout the ages. Jesus assures us that He will be with us always, not just in times of ease and comfort, but until the very end of the age. This promise underscores the omnipresence of Christ, reminding us that we are never alone in our journey of faith.
Hebrews 13:5 (NIV): "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'”
Hebrews 13:5 echoes the sentiment of God's unwavering presence. The author urges believers to prioritise spiritual values over material wealth and to find contentment in God's provision. The verse then quotes from the Old Testament, specifically Deuteronomy 31:6, where God assures His people of His constant presence and faithfulness. By reaffirming this promise in the New Testament context, the author of Hebrews emphasises the enduring nature of God's commitment to His people. Regardless of our circumstances or earthly possessions, we can find security in the unchanging presence of God.
"The presence of God is our greatest comfort and our strongest defense. When we know that He is with us, we can walk through the darkest valleys and face the fiercest storms without fear." - Beth Moore
Application:
As we meditate on these Scriptures, let us embrace the truth of God's unfailing presence in our lives. May we cultivate a deep sense of trust in Him, knowing that He is our refuge and strength, our ever-present help in times of trouble.
As we reflect on Joshua 1:9, let us heed God's command to be strong and courageous, knowing that He goes before us in every situation. May we confront our fears with faith, trusting in the promises of His unfailing presence and provision.
Call to Action:
Let us cultivate a deeper trust in God, especially in times of fear and uncertainty. May we lean on His promises and rely on the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit to overcome obstacles and live victoriously. As we demonstrate courage and faith in our daily lives, let us bear witness to the transformative power of God's love and grace, inviting others to experience the same peace and assurance that we have found in Him.
Today, I challenge you to embrace God's command to be strong and courageous in your own life. Identify areas where fear has held you back and surrender them to God in prayer.
I encourage you to lean into God's presence with unwavering trust. Spend time in prayer, surrendering your fears and anxieties to Him. Allow His promises to infuse you with courage and confidence as you navigate life's challenges. Remember, no matter what lies ahead, God is with you, guiding, comforting, and empowering you every step of the way.
Step out in faith, knowing that He is with you wherever you go, and watch as He works miracles in your midst.
