Be Strong & Courageous: God Is With Us
Scripture: Joshua 1:1-18
This past Sunday we kicked off a new sermon series through the book of Joshua, beginning with chapter 1. The theme that rings throughout this opening chapter is both a command and a promise: “Be strong and courageous, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
God’s Commands to Joshua
As Israel prepared to cross into the Promised Land, God appointed Joshua to take Moses’ place as leader. The task before him was daunting: fierce enemies, fortified cities, and a nation looking to him for direction.
But Joshua’s strength wasn’t to come from military strategy or his own courage. God grounded his leadership in a greater reality: Immanuel — God with us.
“Just as I have been with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you” (v. 5).
That same truth is our foundation today. Whatever battles we face — financial struggles, health challenges, loneliness, or uncertainty — we can hold fast to the promise that Jesus is with us and will never leave us.
Joshua’s Call to the People
Joshua then turned to the people of Israel and said, “Get ready. In three days we’re crossing the Jordan.” This was a defining moment. A previous generation had shrunk back in fear. Would this one trust the Lord and move forward in faith?
The people’s response was encouraging: “All that you have commanded us we will do… Only may the Lord your God be with you as He was with Moses” (vv. 16–17). Their obedience and unity were essential for God’s people to receive His promises.
In the same way, the church today needs every member to “link arms” and serve. We don’t sit on the sidelines while others fight the battle. Every act of service, prayer, and faithfulness matters in God’s mission.
Courage for Us Today
The call to Joshua — “Be strong and courageous” — is the same call for us. God doesn’t promise a life free from battles, but He does promise His presence in the middle of them.
Whether you’re facing a personal trial or standing against the brokenness in our world, you don’t fight alone. Jesus is Immanuel. He is with us. And when we truly believe that, there is nothing we cannot endure for His glory.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
God’s Commands to Joshua
As Israel prepared to cross into the Promised Land, God appointed Joshua to take Moses’ place as leader. The task before him was daunting: fierce enemies, fortified cities, and a nation looking to him for direction.
But Joshua’s strength wasn’t to come from military strategy or his own courage. God grounded his leadership in a greater reality: Immanuel — God with us.
“Just as I have been with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you” (v. 5).
That same truth is our foundation today. Whatever battles we face — financial struggles, health challenges, loneliness, or uncertainty — we can hold fast to the promise that Jesus is with us and will never leave us.
Joshua’s Call to the People
Joshua then turned to the people of Israel and said, “Get ready. In three days we’re crossing the Jordan.” This was a defining moment. A previous generation had shrunk back in fear. Would this one trust the Lord and move forward in faith?
The people’s response was encouraging: “All that you have commanded us we will do… Only may the Lord your God be with you as He was with Moses” (vv. 16–17). Their obedience and unity were essential for God’s people to receive His promises.
In the same way, the church today needs every member to “link arms” and serve. We don’t sit on the sidelines while others fight the battle. Every act of service, prayer, and faithfulness matters in God’s mission.
Courage for Us Today
The call to Joshua — “Be strong and courageous” — is the same call for us. God doesn’t promise a life free from battles, but He does promise His presence in the middle of them.
Whether you’re facing a personal trial or standing against the brokenness in our world, you don’t fight alone. Jesus is Immanuel. He is with us. And when we truly believe that, there is nothing we cannot endure for His glory.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
Moving forward...
God calls His people to courageous obedience. What step of obedience is He asking of you this week? Don’t wait—trust Him, and take it boldly.