How does Deuteronomy 31:23 encourage us to be strong and courageous today? Setting the Scene “Then the LORD commissioned Joshua son of Nun and said, ‘Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land that I swore to them, and I will be with you.’” (Deuteronomy 31:23) Key Phrase: “Be Strong and Courageous” • Commanded twice in this single verse—strength and courage are not optional extras for God’s people. • Given by the LORD Himself; therefore the command carries divine authority and divine enablement. Why Strength and Courage Were Needed Then • Joshua faced a monumental task: leading a nation into hostile territory. • He was succeeding Moses—a daunting leadership transition. • Israel’s future hinged on obedience and steadfastness in the face of fortified cities and seasoned armies. Timeless Reasons We Need Courage Today • Spiritual battles still rage (Ephesians 6:12). • Culture often opposes biblical convictions (2 Timothy 3:12). • Personal callings can feel overwhelming—parenting, ministry, workplace witness. • Fear is a common human condition, but faith counters fear (Isaiah 41:10). Grounds for Our Courage: The Lord’s Presence • “I will be with you” (Deuteronomy 31:23). The promise that undergirded Joshua undergirds every believer (Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5–6). • God’s unchanging character guarantees the same faithfulness we see in Joshua’s story (Malachi 3:6). • His sworn oath (“the land that I swore to them”) reminds us that divine promises are irrevocable (2 Corinthians 1:20). Practical Ways to Walk in Courage 1. Anchor your mind daily in God’s Word—strength arises from truth (Joshua 1:8). 2. Recall past faithfulness—testimonies fuel present bravery (Psalm 77:11–12). 3. Pray specifically for boldness, as the early church did (Acts 4:29–31). 4. Step out in obedience even when feelings lag; courage grows through action (James 1:22). 5. Surround yourself with fellow believers who speak faith, not fear (Hebrews 10:24–25). Other Scriptures That Echo the Call • Deuteronomy 31:6—“Be strong and courageous…He will never leave you nor forsake you.” • Joshua 1:9—“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous…for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” • 1 Corinthians 16:13—“Be on the alert; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.” • 2 Timothy 1:7—“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” Closing Reflection Deuteronomy 31:23 reassures us that the same God who empowered Joshua stands alongside every believer today. Because His presence is guaranteed and His promises are sure, we can step into our own callings—large or small—with unshakeable strength and unflinching courage. |
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