Day 39 – Joshua: Introduction

“Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left that you may prosper wherever you go”. Joshua 1:7 NKJV

Moses entrusted the relay stick to Joshua so he could lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. In chapter one of the book of Joshua, God instructs Joshua to be courageous twice. With all eyes on him, the Israelites looked to Joshua for guidance. He identifies himself as God’s servant, but he is also known as one of the twelve spies sent to scout the Promised Land. Leading the people of God requires strength and courage, and Joshua was not simply a leader out of fear; he was a trained leader who had a deep understanding of God. He was an intelligent man who loved the Lord and obeyed God’s commands.

In Joshua 10:25, Joshua echoed the words God had spoken to him: “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Be strong and courageous.” He shared these same affirmations with his leaders, and they became integral to their journey and leadership style. I believe the phrase “Be strong and courageous” was not meant to instill fear in Joshua but rather to affirm his faith and inspire him to bring out his best

When Jesus was crucified, the words “Be strong and courageous” resonated deeply with me. I could identify with the pain He felt when He cried out, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” Let these words encourage us to be “strong and courageous” as we rise as followers of Jesus. The book of Esther reminds us, “Who knows? Perhaps you have been raised for such a time as this.” Therefore, let us embrace these words and strive to be “strong and courageous” every day.

Prayer: The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust” Psalm 18:2. “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever”. Ps 73:26 Father, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Help me to also “Be strong and courageous”. Amen.