Having courage does not mean we do not feel scared or fearful, ever. It means we still choose to do things even if we dread going through it because we believe that it is the right thing to do. Courage is moving forward even if we are terrified about taking another step thinking about its possible impact on our lives. It is drawing strength from the Lord so that we can go through with something we are unsure of because we are certain that is the path God wants us to take.
Courage is when we hold on to God’s past deliverance and faithfulness in our lives, so that we can press on towards life’s struggles simply because through experience, we know God will again bring us through it.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7
Courage is knowing that as we stand our ground and face our fears, we can hold on to the hope, promises. and assurance of presence and guidance from the Sovereign King who is above it all. Who is much bigger than all our worries, mightier than every enemy we could think of combined, and as faithful as ever.
One Biblical example of this kind of courage is when Joshua led the Israelites to cross the Jordan River so they could finally get to the Promised Land. The Lord has assured Joshua several times that He will be by his side, will support him as He has done with Joshua’s former boss, Moses, and so He should be courageous enough to lead the charge.
And so Joshua was brave enough to lead the Israelites into setting foot in the Jordan River even though it has not receded yet. In his heart, Joshua believed that if he just takes courage and does his part, the Lord will do as He promised and fill in the gaps and do the impossible with the Almighty’s strength and power.
“Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing.” Joshua 3:15-16
The good news for us is the same God that helped Joshua is the same God that promised to never leave us nor forsake us. He is the same God that asks us to be courageous and boldy face things that we fear, so that we can conquer them and align our lives with His will.
The courage that Joshua possessed can be in us if only we will grow and nurture a close relationship with God through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Once we decide to step away from our sins, abide in His commands, and grow our faith by intentionally knowing HIm through His Word, we too can be courageous.
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Joshua 3:7-17 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: Do you feel like fear is holding you back? Is there an area in your life where you need to take courage? How can knowing Jesus and His words help you become more hopeful and brave to face your struggles?
Conversation with the Lord: Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for fueling our hope and courage to face the things that we dread. Thank you that we know you have our backs. Thank you that you love us enough, my Lord. Please grant me the grace to continue seeking you and your words so that I can be strong enough to face my fears. Amen.