Joshua 1:9 ~ Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.
Are you easily discouraged? I saw a church billboard that read, “You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage him.” If things get difficult with a certain situation, do you say, “I can’t do this?” If it takes too long to get the breakthrough you have been praying and waiting for, do you give up?
I encourage you to read the first chapter of Joshua and look at how God encouraged Joshua, as he was about to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. In verses 6-9, God gives Joshua and us guidance on how to succeed and overcome the obstacles that were sure to come. Here’s a brief summary:
- Be strong and courageous – God knew the tasks ahead of Joshua would not be easy, so he repeated these words to Joshua several times. You too may need to speak these words to yourself over and over again.
- Be obedient – Through the Word of God and the Holy Spirit, God provides us guidance on how we should live and directs us onto our path of purpose. In verse 7b, God told Joshua, “do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.” Our disobedience always distracts us from God’s path and plan for our lives.
- Be consistent in meditating on God’s word – God encouraged Joshua to meditate on His word day and night. It is through the Word of God, that we are given wisdom, discernment, and encouragement to overcome the tasks, struggles or challenges that we face. It is through the word of God that we find direction and purpose.
We all will face challenges and situations that may seem to overwhelm us. When those times come, I encourage you to repeat over and over to yourself God’s promise in Joshua 1:5 “No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your promise to never leave or forsake us. We pray our confidence in You will strengthen us to do all that You have called us to do.
Purpose in Action: What actions are you avoiding or fearful of taking right now? What steps do you need to take to move forward?
For His Purpose,
LiKeisha
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