Finding the courage to trust God
Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. 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 1:7-9
From the text, Joshua is receiving an assurance from God. He will be succeeding Moses in leading the Israelites. He felt the tremendous pressure and thought of his own inadequacy for the task. Yet God gave Him words of encouragement to be strong and courageous. When facing overwhelming challenge, it is easy to get dismayed. It was not enough that Joshua will be thinking of God’s presence though this is very important, but also to study the Word of God regularly. This is a very important reminder because God is telling Joshua that He will know God’s leading by following the instructions God gave him through Moses. The word of God will provide him wisdom so he will not deviate from God’s will. Same admonition should not be taken lightly by those who love God and are willing to follow Him. Filling your mind with the word of God by meditating on it and obeying the word will help you overcome your anxiety when circumstances are becoming overwhelming. The word of God will provide you the wisdom you need so you could make decisions that will honor God and will be beneficial for you. The word of God will help you live your life being guided by His promises. Just like what God told Joshua, it is not just by listening to God’s word that you will find it beneficial but the humility to obey His word. This is also what the New Testament teaches. “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves” (James 1:22). So whatever insurmountable challenge you are facing right now, claim His promise from His Word that He will be with. Life’s challenges are God’s way of helping you experience His power and His presence. Instead of running away from life’s difficulties, let Him assure you of His guidance. Ask Him to help you overcome your doubts and hold on to His promises.
Blessings.
