God told Joshua ‘be courageous’ three times in one chapter—why?
Joshua was the leader God chose to lead and guide the Israelites into the Promised Land after they escaped Egypt.
Think about that for a second… Joshua was chosen to take over leadership from Moses – the man who had parted the Red Sea, spoke with God face-to-face, and led an entire nation through the wilderness! Now imagine that God chose you for this task and how you would feel. That was Joshua’s reality.
So what did God say? Not once, not twice, but three times in one chapter: “Be strong and courageous.” (See Joshua 1:6, 1:7, and 1:9.)
Why the repetition? Because God knows that real courage isn’t automatic or something we’re born with, it’s something we practice.
True courage is something that has to be rooted in something deeper than self-confidence. And the more we practice courage with God’s help, the more others see it and are encouraged themselves.
Think about how many times you’ve been inspired by someone else’s bold step of faith. That’s the power of courage—it spreads. Your faith today might be the spark someone else needs tomorrow.
It’s important to remember that courage doesn’t mean we’re never afraid. It means we move forward anyway—because we know who goes with us. Joshua’s courage didn’t come from self-confidence. It came from knowing that the God who parted the sea would walk with him into the promised land.
That same God walks with you.
So step out. Speak up. Move forward. Not because you have it all figured out, but because courage is contagious, and God is already paving the way!
Bible Verse
Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
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Understanding the Scripture
Joshua 1:9 is God’s personal word to Joshua, but it applies to us too:
- “Be strong and courageous” – God isn’t expecting us to never feel afraid. He’s telling us to stand firm anyway, because of what comes next.
- “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” – Fear and discouragement are natural, but they don’t have to be final.
- “For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” – That’s the reason for our courage—not our strength, but His presence.
Faith in Action
Journaling Prompts
Affirmation
I will be strong and courageous because God is with me!
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
You told Joshua to be strong and courageous, and I believe You’re telling me the same thing today. Help me not to rely on my own strength, but to trust in Your presence. When fear tries to hold me back, remind me that You are with me. Make me brave—not just for myself, but so others can be encouraged too.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
