Why God Commands You to Be Strong and Courageous

Daily Devotional – Monday, January 24, 2022

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9 (NKJV)

In the history of Israel, few leaders can match Moses in leadership, influence and fame. Through Moses, God delivered His people from centuries of Egyptian slavery and led them through the wilderness.

His closeness and friendship with God was unmatched. For example, “the LORD spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend.” (Exodus 33:11). Despite his elevated position, “Moses was very humble, more than all men who were on the face of the earth.” (Numbers 12:3).

Arise and go over this Jordan

However, when Moses disobeyed God, the Lord told him, “Yet you shall see the land before you, though you shall not go there, into the land which I am giving to the children of Israel.” (Deuteronomy 32:52).

Now, your name is Joshua, Moses’ assistant. God turns to you and says, “Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them—the children of Israel.” (Joshua 1:2).

Can I Fit into the Shoes of Moses?

I can hear Joshua say, “Are you serious, God? How can I fit into Moses’ shoes? The man was a colossus. He was an effective leader over a very stubborn group of people. Despite his diligence and humility, you did not excuse his disobedience. How can I replace Moses, God?”

What follows is a powerful message of encouragement in verses 3 to 9. Sample this, “No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and of good courage…” (Joshua 1:5-6).

I Will Be With You

This must have come as a big relief to Joshua. God would walk with him and the Israelites into the Promised Land. No obstacle would be too big for Joshua. From the onset, Joshua knew that His success lay in fully trusting God.

Like Joshua, I have formidable challenges ahead. My marriage, family work, church and society pose various obstacles. I want to succeed but my past failures and those of people I know fill me with fear.

Have I Not Commanded You?

I have fewer resources than I need. Every new day is uncharted territory. I am happy, though, to know that God’s message to Joshua also applies to me. The hurdles before me are intimidating but my God is immensely powerful.

Whenever I feel like giving up, God speaks to me, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9).

March On, Challenges Notwithstanding

The God who gave you responsibilities will provide the means to succeed. He Who commands you to go ahead has provided everything you need for the journey. Your work is to be courageous and to trust Him all the way.

Lord Jesus, because You have commanded me, I will be strong and courageous. I will not be afraid or dismayed by the challenges I face today because You will be with me wherever I go.