Be strong and courageous

Joshua 1:6 NLT

As a city girl who now lives in the East Texas countryside, I have learned that it takes courage and determination to live here. It is not for the wimpy or faint of heart. It seems all the trees, critters and bugs are giant! I have had more encounters with snakes, skunks, wasps, spiders, scorpions and hogs… just to name a few… more than I care to mention. And they all seem colossal!

It seems they are winning!

It reminds me of the story of Israel and their refusal in entering the land of Canaan (Numbers 13 -14). Everything looked overwhelming and they became afraid thinking they would not win in a fight. 

I get it… it can seem that way sometimes!

But then later, the Lord speaks to Joshua and says…

Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instruction Moses gave you… Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command – be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:6-9 NLT).

This passage has helped me as I face something that seems… too overwhelming.

Whether it is the critters in the countryside, or something Jesus is prompting me to be part of… such as my role of serving in ministry. The responsibility can seem giant and I often don’t feel equipped.

Then, I hear in the quiet of my heart… Turn to Me in obedience and I will help you succeed… I am with you.

Jesus also reminds me of His Words of comfort…

For the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God… I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world (John 16:27,33 CSB).

I may not always feel courageous, but I do know that Jesus will give me His courage to conquer my fear or doubt. I have experienced this with Him as He is strengthening me to serve.

Jesus reduces what seemed so impossible to possible – so I can move forward in faith.

Father, in the quiet of my heart, You speak to me… whispering, “Trust Me”. Because I love Jesus and believe that You sent Him, I know that You will help me have peace and courage to face anything that may seem giant and difficult to overcome. Thank You for reminding me of the victory that I already have in Jesus. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Stacy A. Davis