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)
Joshua had big shoes to fill. After Moses’ death, Joshua went from being Moses’ assistant to becoming his successor. Therefore, it was Joshua, who led the Israelites into the Promised Land. Even though there’s no mention of Joshua’s reaction (as there is of Moses when God first called him), God’s words to Joshua in the first chapter of the book suggest that Joshua was apprehensive, and God understood that. To ease Joshua’s fears, God reassured him of His continued presence and promised him success. God also instructed Joshua to be strong and courageous. We all have fears, even if we don’t necessarily voice them, but God knows them. His command to Joshua thousands of years ago is the same one to us today – be strong and courageous because I am with you wherever you go.
God knows our fears and can help us overcome them.
