Let’s talk about God’s command to strength and courage in Day 6 of the courage challenge.Â
This may sound similar to yesterday’s discussion on Deuteronomy 31, and there’s a really cool reason for that. First, let’s start with the verse for today:
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
For comparison, here’s the other verse:
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you
Joshua's dilemma
Joshua was filling in some huge shoes, beginning to lead Israel after Moses passed. Moses was Israel’s “hero” as the person God used to deliver Israel from 400 years of slavery in Egypt.Â
He not only had to deal with a nation of people who weren’t used to him as a leader, he also was about to lead them into a hostile land to follow God’s direction to conquer.Â
So here’s why this repetition is so cool: God knew Joshua needed to hear it for himself.Â
God is so good, so compassionate.Â
About the command
Have you ever wondered why this is a command? Why God specifically calls it a command? “Have I not commanded you?” God commands a lot of things and they usually aren’t similar to this.Â
I think this is another instance of God being so so good. He knows we need all the help we can get being strong and courageous. He knows that our natural inclination is fear, worry, doubt, and inaction.Â
So He gives us what we need and commands strength and courage.Â
Real life courage
Today courage in real life goes to my husband. He’s faced so much in his life and continues to love and serve our family so wonderfully. I’m so thankful for his example in my life.Â
What's happening?
We’re studying courage through Scripture and daily life every day this month. Learn all about how to join me here.Â
