"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."
— Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Summary
Moses is dead. The greatest leader Israel has ever known is gone. Now Joshua must step into an impossible role: leading God's people into the Promised Land.
Three times in this passage, God tells Joshua to be strong and courageous. Why the repetition? Because the task ahead is daunting—and God knows Joshua needs to hear it.
But notice what God doesn't say. He doesn't say 'Be strong because you're capable.' He says 'Be strong because I am with you.' The source of Joshua's courage isn't his own skill or experience. It's God's presence.
What impossible situation are you facing? The same God who promised to be with Joshua promises to be with you.
Discussion Questions
- Why do you think God repeated 'be strong and courageous' three times?
- How does knowing God is with you change how you approach difficult situations?
- What 'land' is God calling you to step into right now?
- How can we encourage one another to be strong and courageous?
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