Life can be full of challenges, sorrows, and tough decisions. But even amidst hardship, the Lord counsels us to be strong and courageous. Understanding Joshua 1:9 in the Bible can help us face hard things with faith and confidence.
Joshua’s challenges
The children of Israel had wandered in the wilderness for 40 years and it was up to Joshua to lead them into the promised land. He’d have to claim the land from its current inhabitants, fight and lead battles, and provide spiritual leadership for a large group of people. As he was feeling the overwhelming weight of the task before him, the Lord offered these words of encouragement:
“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goes.”
Joshua 1:9

These comforting words can apply to all of us as we seek to live a good life and overcome our own unique challenges.

What does it mean to be strong?
Part of being strong and of a good courage means trusting in the Lord as our true source of strength. In Joshua’s case, he didn’t have all the answers for the challenges before him. But he was counseled to go forward anyway, acting in faith. Like Joshua, we seldom have all the answers to our personal challenges. But God promises that when we turn to Him for guidance, we will succeed. God is all-powerful and all-knowing. He has the answers and the strength we need to face any challenge before us. He was with Joshua, and He will be with us.

How can we be strong and of a good courage?
Being strong and courageous usually doesn’t require any grand gestures. More often, it’s made up of small decisions we make every day that show our trust in God. As we prayerfully seek His direction, study His word, and follow His example each day, we will have the courage to let go of fear and face our challenges with faith. As you turn to Jesus Christ in faith and follow His counsel to be strong and of a good courage, you will feel the assurance that He is always with you.