Scripture Study
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9
Fear Doesn’t Mean a Lack of Courage
Experiencing fear doesn’t mean you lack courage—it simply highlights the need to trust God more deeply.
Right before Joshua was set to assume leadership of the Israelites and lead them into the Promised Land, God spoke to him directly. He reminded Joshua of a command: be strong and courageous. He told him not to be frightened or dismayed, promising that the Lord would be with him wherever he went.
Joshua had already proven his courage decades earlier as one of the twelve spies sent into Canaan. He and Caleb were the only two out of the twelve who insisted they should take the land God had promised, despite the formidable nations living there. The other ten spies gave in to fear, but Joshua knew God was with them.
Stepping Into the Unknown
Even with Joshua’s solid track record of faith, God still took time to encourage him not to be frightened right as he stepped into leadership.
The truth is, Joshua had plenty of valid reasons to feel fear:
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He was stepping into the shoes of Moses, one of history’s greatest leaders.
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He was about to lead an entire nation into relentless warfare.
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He was leading a people who had already panicked and refused to enter the land forty years prior.
Joshua was stepping directly into massive uncertainty, which naturally brings fear. But he moved forward anyway, drawing true courage from knowing that God was right beside him.
What Real Courage Accomplished
Because Joshua relied on God’s presence rather than giving in to hesitation, God did incredible things through his leadership:
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Parted the Jordan River for the Israelites to cross on dry ground.
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Brought down the walls of Jericho after the people marched in obedience.
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Overcame setback and sin at Ai, ultimately securing victory for the nation.
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Conquered strategic cities including Makkedah, Libnah, Lachish, Eglon, Hebron, and Debir.
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Defeated the alliance of northern kings, securing the land promised to Abraham’s lineage.
Joshua didn’t allow fear to paralyze him; he allowed it to push him toward a deeper reliance on God.
Do Not Fear
Everyone experiences fear. That’s precisely why the phrase “do not fear” or “do not be afraid” appears roughly 365 times throughout Scripture—one reminder for every single day of the year. God knew we would face moments of dread, and He constantly reminds us that He is present with us in them.
What has God called you to do that you’ve been hesitant or afraid to move forward with?
It’s completely normal to feel fear when stepping into the unknown—just don’t let it keep you from taking the next step in faith. Hold onto God’s promise to be with you wherever you go.
Have a great day in Christ,
Matt
