Joshua 1:6 “Be strong and courageous….”
Many times I have used these verses in Joshua to give me strength and courage. Many times I have used them to encourage others. Four times in the one chapter, some form of “Be strong and courageous” is repeated. It’s hard NOT to be encouraged with that repetition.
Joshua 1:7 “Be strong and very courageous….”
Commentary on this verse says that the fact that Joshua needed to hear it repeated so many times was a sign of a flaw in him, mainly his need for encouragement. But don’t we all need encouragement? Is that weakness or human nature? And the encouragement leads to an important reminder—Joshua can be strong and courageous BECAUSE the LORD is with him, not because of anything he is or does. The constant reminder to be strong and courageous is a reminder that he isn’t doing this in his own strength, that God is with him.
Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong as courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for this reminder that You are with us and because of Your presence, we don’t have to be afraid. Thank You for the need for encouragement, which helps to remind us that we aren’t called to do Your work in our strength but in Your strength. Help us to encourage one another and build each other up as we point each other to You. Draw us closer. Amen.
Joshua 1:18 “…Only be strong and courageous!”
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.