“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; be not frightened, neither be dismayed; for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9 (RSV)
It has been said that courage is the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, dangers, and pain without fear. It was Mark Twain who said this about courage: “You will dare to take risks, have the strength to be compassionate, and the wisdom to be humble. Courage is the foundation of integrity.” In Joshua 1:9, we are commanded by God to be strong and courageous. No doubt you’ve had those times where this is really tested. Perhaps even now you’re going through some stuff where you’re finding it hard not to be afraid and anxious. You are reminded again and again that God is with you wherever you go. That He has your back. He’s your strength. He’s your helper. Psalm 118:6-7a (NLT) tells you, “The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me? Yes, the Lord is for me; he will help me.” And John 16:33 (NLT) says, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”