"Be strong and very courageous." Joshua 1:7

Thought Of The Day...
Our hearts stir with the stories of courageous people in the Bible. We admire Abram for leaving his homeland to follow the Lord. We applaud Moses for marching in before Pharaoh with God's demand "Let my people go!" We love to hear of young David going out to meet mighty Goliath.
Well, look at God's approach to Joshua, who is about to take over in Moses' place. God's first words to Joshua are about courage. Three times in his address to Joshua, God repeats the challenge "Be strong and courageous."
Courage is needed when the task is big--and this task is immense! God says, in effect, "Call Israel together; cross the Jordan; conquer the cities; overcome the enemies; resist their gods. Yes, the enemies will be fearsome, but you must be courageous!"
Courage has always been a necessary quality among the people of God. Standing for righteousness in a society that accommodates itself to evil takes courage. Spreading the true gospel of Jesus Christ in a culture that wants to say any religion will do, takes courage. Allegiance to Jesus Christ in a world that is often against Christ takes courage.
Paul's charge to his friends in Corinth applies to us all. "Be alert. Continue strong in the faith. Have courage, and be strong" (1 Corinthians 16:13, NCV).

Prayer...
Heavenly Father, as I come to you today, I pray for strength and courage to face the challenges ahead. Help me to remember the words of Joshua 1:7, that I may be strong and courageous, not afraid or discouraged. Lord, I know that there will be issues to face, temptations to withstand, and enemies to meet, but I trust in your unfailing love and protection.

Grant me a courageous heart, O Lord, that I may stand firm in my obedience to your will. Strengthen my faith and help me to remain steadfast in the face of adversity. May I always remember that with you by my side, I am more than a conqueror.

Guide me, Lord, in your righteous ways and keep me on the path of obedience. May your Holy Spirit empower me to resist temptations and overcome any obstacle that comes my way. I pray that through your grace, I may live a life that brings honor and glory to your name.

Thank you, Lord, for your promise to be with me wherever I go. I trust in your unfailing love and faithfulness. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.