[Joshua was about to take over leadership of the people of God, after the death of Moses. So our Abba Father spoke these words to him to encourage him!] “BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. BE STRONG AND VERY COURAGEOUS. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; DO NOT TURN FROM IT to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:6-7) [Now, Joshua was going to be the one with the responsibility to lead God’s people. There was no one higher to pass problems and decisions up to. There is a enormous difference between being an executive officer carrying out the orders of someone else and BEING THE ACTUAL DECISION MAKER!] “Keep this Book of the Law [their bible] always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful TO DO EVERYTHING WRITTEN IN IT. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for THE LORD YOUR GOD WILL BE with you WHEREVER YOU GO.” (Josh. 1:8-9) [Obey me Joshua, keep my word, do what my word says to do AND TEACH OTHERS TO DO THE SAME.] “Then they answered Joshua, “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us WE WILL GO. Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the LORD your God BE WITH YOU AS HE WAS WITH MOSES.” (Josh. 1:16-17) [How important it is for us to seek the Lord for guidance, wisdom and knowledge when we are placed in a leadership position. We are RESPONSIBLE TO GOD for the people we are leading!] “Whoever rebels against your word and does not obey it, whatever you may command them, will be put to death. ONLY BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS!” (Josh. 1:18) [This is the 4th time God used these words “Be strong and courageous” It seems that STRENGTH (spiritual strength) and COURAGE (godly courage) are important characteristics for us!]
