Living fearlessly with God's promise.
From Joshua 1 verse 9.
Have I not commanded you?
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
This verse is packed with divine encouragement and assurance.
Have I not commanded you? This question is a reminder.
God isn't making a suggestion, He's giving a clear command. He had already told Joshua to be courageous in previous verses.
Joshua 1 verses 6 to 7.
Now, God emphasizes it again to ensure that Joshua fully understands His instruction.
God expects us to be bold and unwavering in the face of life's challenges because He is the one who gives strength.
Isaiah 41 verse 10.
So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.
When facing something difficult, like a new job, a big decision or a personal loss, God is saying, I have got you.
Trust me, step forward and don't back down. Inner power through faith.
Strength and courage in this context are not physical but spiritual and emotional. Being strong means trusting God fully, even when the road ahead looks uncertain.
It's the strength that comes from knowing God's promises will never fail. Courage is not the absence of fear, but faith in God's presence despite fear.
2 Timothy 1 verse 7
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid but gives us power, love, and self-discipline. Think of a time when you hesitated to speak up or take action because of fear.
God's command to be courageous reminds you that with Him, you already have all the power you need to move forward.
Let go of fear
God knows fear and discouragement are real, but He tells us not to give them control.
Life is full of battles, like anxiety, setbacks, or doubt, but fear isn't from God. Discouragement often comes when things don't go as planned, but God tells us to focus on Him, not the situation.
Psalm 34 verse 4.
I sought the Lord, and He answered me.
He delivered me from all my fears.
Instead of giving up when facing difficulty, pray and lean on God. Even when things seem bleak, His plan is still unfolding.
Divine presence always
The greatest assurance in this verse is God's presence.
Joshua could face battles ahead because God promised to be with him. This same promise is for you today. You are never alone. God walks with you in every situation, good or bad.
Matthew 28 verse 20
And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Whether you are walking into a new season or enduring trials, God's presence is the ultimate source of peace and confidence.
Joshua 1 verse 9 is a powerful reminder that courage, strength, and peace come from God's constant presence in our lives.
Be strong.
Not because you won't face difficulty, but because God will walk with you through it all.
As God said to Joshua, He says,
Do not be afraid or discouraged, for I am with you wherever you go.
Stay Blessed.