Joshua 1:6

Be strong and of good courage, for to this people you shall divide as an inheritance the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. - Joshua 1:6

Have you ever faced an overwhelming challenge?  Maybe it was something that seemed insurmountable, or a goal that felt just out of reach.  Perhaps it was a task that left you troubled and anxious.  If so, consider the example of Joshua.  Though following Moses may not be history's greatest obstacle, it certainly wasn't an assignment for the faint of heart.  Yet the Lord told Joshua to be strong and of good courage.  God even instructed him not to fear or be dismayed (Joshua 1:9), leaving us to wonder about the basis for this unusual courage.  How can we face life's burdens without wilting under the pressure?

Apparently, this admonition stemmed from both the promise and presence of God.  In verse 6 the Lord assured Joshua that He would use him to divide the Promised Land among the people of Israel.  Translation: God always keeps His promises.  In verses 7 and 8 God implored the young leader to know His precepts so that he would not deviate from them.  Filling our minds with the Word of God allows us to live in light of His promises.  Often our anxiety grows because we are ignorant or not mindful fo the reassurances found in Scripture.  Though the people in God's story continually change, the principles and promises of His Word do not.

God guaranteed that He would be with Joshua wherever he went (Joshua 1:9).  Peace that passes understanding is not attributed to the absence of adversity, but to the presence of God in the midst of it.  Appreciating the nears of God would be impossible apart from times of desperately needing Him.  In this sense, life's challenges are a necessary means of creating intimacy with your Savior.  Rather than running from difficulty as if God is not there, you might be surprised to discover that this is where He is most present.  *

Lord, the possibilities of this day overwhelm me.  I pray that You will continually bring Scripture to my mind as I face challenges.  Protect me from anxiety as I yield to Your Word and rest in Your presence.  Assure me with certainty of Your goodness toward me and Your purposes for me.  I choose to acknowledge You rather than leaning on my own understanding.  Thank You for the hope I have in You, Lord Jesus.  Amen.


*Dr. Adam Dooley, Mobile, AL