“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

[Joshua 1:9 NIV]

Devotional

When Joshua took leadership after Moses, he faced an overwhelming task. He was stepping into uncharted territory, leading a people into the promised land while surrounded by enemies and unknowns. God’s command to Joshua was not just a suggestion but a promise: strength and courage were possible because the Lord Himself would be with him every step of the way.

This same truth speaks to us today. We may not be leading a nation into battle, but we face challenges, uncertainties, and fears that can make our hearts tremble. God reminds us that courage does not come from our own abilities, but from His constant presence. His nearness is what makes fear powerless and discouragement lose its grip.

Notice also that God didn’t just say, “Try to be strong.” He said, “Be strong and courageous.” It was a call to choose faith over fear. Strength is not the absence of weakness, but the decision to trust God in the middle of it. Courage grows when we remember that wherever we go, He goes too.

Reflection

When I feel afraid or uncertain, I can choose to lean on God’s presence rather than my own strength. Today, I will remind myself that I never walk into any situation alone, because the Lord goes before me and stands beside me.

Prayer

Father, thank You for promising to be with me wherever I go. Help me to walk in Your strength and courage instead of fear. Teach me to trust Your presence in every circumstance of my life. Amen.