Only… Be Strong and Very Courageous (Joshua 1:7)

I once heard someone define courage as taking an action without knowing its outcome. The Lord is asking us to be strong and very courageous in our walk with Him, to trust fully in His good plan for our lives.

In fact, we are in need of courage in every area of our lives – especially in relation to other people. We need courage to start a new job or finish an old one well. It takes courage to go back to school. It takes courage to go out and meet new people and show them the real you. It takes courage to start dating with the hope of marriage. It even takes courage to bring children into the world.

What is it that we are so afraid of?

I believe it is the decision to leave our comfort zone, lose control and not know what lies ahead. For some, the new and the unknown is exciting, but for me it is scary. I begin to worry and fret. What might happen? How will I react? Will I be able to enjoy this? Is it going to produce the outcome I was hoping for?

One of the things I try to do when all of these questions start whirling in my head, is a small thought exercise. I ask myself a simple question like – What is the worst that could happen? What if I fail? These questions help to neutralize the fear. Because at the end of the day, I know for sure that God is with me wherever I go, and He promised me (and you) that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).

So, here’s a different question to ask yourself when you are facing fear and are in need of courage. Am I loved by God? Am I called according to His purpose? And if so, do I really believe God is holding me, and will fulfil His word?

Actually, facing our fear is a great opportunity to grow in our faith and trust in God. Every time we’re called to face our fears, our courage, our trust and our faith in God are increased. God is inviting you, and me, to examine ourselves – to seek out things we have avoided doing because of fear. That’s exactly what God did with Joshua. He knew Joshua was afraid and uncertain in his new position but He kept on calling him higher.

What false comfort or security is God calling you to surrender?

Maybe you keep making excuses about why you shouldn’t do things because you are unsure of the result?

Or maybe you still think your way is the only way to go?

In any case, God is inviting you to a higher walk with Him – to walk hand in hand with Him as the creator and to trust He has your best interests at heart.

Hold on to courage, knowing that no matter what happens, God is on your side. He is for you, not against you, He loves you, and you are called according to His will and purpose!