Jesus and the Average Joe's Fear Not series highlight the 365 verses in the Bible that encourage us not to be afraid.
Today's Scripture:
Joshua 1:9 – "This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
Monthly Theme Reminder:
This month, we’re focusing on how God’s presence gives us the courage to overcome fear.
Weekly Theme Reminder:
This week, we’re exploring God’s promise to always be with us, no matter what we face.
Over the past two days, we’ve been exploring God’s promises to never leave or forsake us. Today, we turn to Joshua 1:9, a verse that reminds us to be strong and courageous because God is always with us.
Have you ever felt paralyzed by fear when facing something new? I have. I was inspired when I read of Joshua, standing on the edge of the Promised Land, tasked with leading an entire nation into uncharted territory. The enormity of that responsibility must have been overwhelming, yet God gave him a command, not a suggestion: “Be strong and courageous.”
Don’t think about it. Don’t take it under advisement. DO IT! Be strong and courageous!
This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
Why should you be strong and courageous? Why should you not be afraid or discouraged? Because you’re a stud? Because you’re just that damn cool? NO! Because God is with you wherever you go. We should stop making it about us. I wish I had a dollar for every time in my 62 years that I sat around brooding over the fact that I may not be strong enough or good enough or smart enough or courageous enough. Guess what?! I’m not! But my God is! And He is with me wherever I go!
This verse isn’t just a pep talk—it’s a declaration that we don’t face life’s challenges alone. God’s presence is our source of strength and courage.
God didn’t call Joshua to lead because he was fearless; He called Joshua because He was with him. The same is true for us. God doesn’t call us to parent, lead, build, or endeavor because we’re just that good. We’re not. He is. Whatever you’re facing today, remember: God goes with you. Strength and courage come from trusting in Him, not in your own abilities.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your constant presence in my life. When I feel afraid or discouraged, remind me that You are with me, giving me strength and courage to take the next step. Amen.
Challenge:
Take one bold step toward a goal or responsibility you’ve been hesitant to face. Write down that goal, and write Joshua 1:9 right next to it as a reminder that God goes wherever you go. This podcast exists because of a sticky note I placed on my monitor months ago when Matthew 14:27 (which we will get to in this series) encouraged me to do the same thing.
I love ya. I’m cheering for both of us – let’s Thrive in ’25. Have a great day – and please be in touch if you need me!
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