STRENGTH AND COURAGE

            Be strong and of good courage, for to this people you shall divide as an inheritance the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. –Josh 1:6

God called Moses to lead His people out from Egypt, cross the wilderness, and head for the land of Canaan. After Moses’ death, the Lord spoke to Joshua and instructed him to fill Moses’ shoes. Filling Moses’ shoes was probably even more difficult than what Moses had to do.

Not only would Joshua have to take up the baton of such a great religious leader, he also faced the immediate challenge to lead the Israelites to war and to conquer the land Canaan. Moreover, Joshua must’ve witnessed how the Israelites misbehaved when they were under Moses’ guidance. The work of leading this rebellious group of people would not be easy. If we were in Joshua’s shoes, we would be too afraid and hesitant to accept such a difficult commission.

But God knew the heart of His servant, so He revealed to Joshua that He will give them every place that they set their foot on, just as He had promised Moses. Many times, the Lord also encouraged Joshua, “be strong and courageous.” If that wasn’t enough, God also assured him: “as I was with Moses, so I will be with you, I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Josh 1:5). These affirmations must’ve really strengthened Joshua as he stepped up to leadership.

Joshua’s attitude and actions were definitely very admirable, too. Even though the works entrusted to him were enormous and overwhelming, Joshua fully followed God’s command in all that he did. Because of his obedience, the Lord was with him all the way and He gave the Israelites victory over their enemies. Joshua’s exemplary faith is worthy for us to emulate.

Naturally, when we are first appointed to do some work for God, we might feel afraid that we may not be capable of taking up the task. Nevertheless, we need to remember what God told Joshua: “Be strong and courageous,” for these words are also directed to all of us who work for God wholeheartedly.

Indeed, doing God’s work is to engage in spiritual battle, and He will not leave us to fight the battle alone. As He promised Joshua before, He also promises us today—He will strengthen the works of our hands and He will make our feet steadfast to walk in His ways. All we need is to serve Him with a willing and sincere heart.

            Questions for reflection:

            1. Have you ever had the experience of trying to overcome your fear in serving God?
2. Is there any other way in which we can obtain more strength and courage to do God’s work?