Connect Judges 18:9 with Joshua 1:9 on courage and God's presence. The Call to Courage: Judges 18:9 “They said, ‘Arise, and let us go up against them, for we have seen the land, and it is very good. Why do you delay? Do not hesitate to go and take possession of it.’” • The Danite scouts return brimming with conviction: the land is “very good.” • Their rally cry—“Why do you delay?”—pushes their kinsmen past fear into action. • The basis for their courage is twofold: 1) firsthand evidence of God’s provision, and 2) confidence that possession is possible because the Lord has opened the door. Commanded Courage: Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” • God Himself supplies the command, leaving no room for timidity. • The promise of His continual presence undergirds the command. • Joshua’s task—to lead Israel into the Promised Land—sets the template for every subsequent act of faithful bravery. One Theme, Two Settings 1. Same Source – In both passages, courage springs from the certainty that the Lord goes ahead (compare Deuteronomy 31:6; Hebrews 13:5). 2. Same Objective – Possession of God-given territory, whether Joshua’s national campaign or the Danites’ local conquest. 3. Same Pattern – A divine assurance → a summons to bold obedience → an act of faith that takes ground. Thread of Divine Presence • God’s “with-ness” is the anchor of biblical courage (Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 27:1). • Fear loses its legitimacy when the Almighty pledges to accompany His people. • The literal, historical victories recorded here illustrate the unchanging principle: God’s presence is not theory; it is a covenant reality that transforms ordinary men and women into courageous conquerors. Lessons for Us Today • Courage is not self-generated bravado; it is a response to God’s revealed promises (Romans 8:31). • Delay (“Why do you delay?”) often signals doubt; decisive obedience honors the One who commands. • Every believer inherits the same promise of presence that emboldened Joshua and the Danites (Matthew 28:20). Practical Steps of Courageous Faith • Recall His promises daily—write out verses like Joshua 1:9 and keep them visible. • Act quickly when God opens a door, trusting His provision more than your feelings. • Speak encouragement to fellow believers just as the spies did—courage is contagious. The God who stood with Joshua and propelled the Danites stands with us, urging, “Arise… do not hesitate.” |
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