Today's Scripture:
Joshua 1:1-9

Key Verse:
Joshua 1:9

"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 goest."

The Point:

A Thriving Heart is Courageous - Standing Firm in the Faith!

The standard for courage in many Baptist churches in America is often discussed in the context of "laying it all on the altar" or "being all in for Jesus," but for the most part courage is discussed in an academic context held in a safe location. A study of Foxe's Book of Martyrs can put some practical realism into the discussion or a quick review of recent events familiar to our Church brings home the point. Consider the murder of a native Missionary and his wife in a hostile country in East Africa earlier this year reported by our Missionary/Church Planter, Chuck Fernandez. This faithful couple went to a location to preach and share the gospel knowing full well if they were caught the consequences could be dire. They considered the risk and went anyway. They were caught and lost their lives. Meditate on that scenario for a few minutes and consider courage is not the absence of fear, it is faith that obeys God in spite of fear. As tragic as that event seems, God is using it for His Glory!! All you need to do to confirm this is to keep up with Bro. Fernandez's updates from his field of labor.

True courage is born when we remember God's presence and power. We are sure He loves us (John 3:16), but we need to be reminded that God is always with us. (Joshua 1:9 quoted above) Jesus promised His disciples, "I am with you always." (Matthew 28:20). The stories of martyrs and prisoners down through history reveal that many gave their lives rather than recant their faith. Others survived imprisonment and torture because God's supernatural indwelling presence was their lifeline. God has promised to be with us no matter what happens in this life. (Hebrews 13:5)

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Matthew 28:20 "Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."

Hebrews 13:5 "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."

In seasons of revival, God often calls His people to step out in faith, confront sin, or share the gospel boldly. Courage doesn't come from our strength but from knowing the One who goes before us, and gives us strength. (Psalm 28:8)

Psalm 28:8 "The Lord is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed."

If you are persuaded God has given you a task too great for you to do, you have no reason to disobey because of fear. As we walk in His will, He will equip us to do all that He has called us to do. (Psalm 27:14)

Psalm 27:14 "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD."

Study Today's Scripture (Joshua 1:1-9) and answer these Reflection Questions:

1. Remember the promise of God's presence in Joshua 1:1-9 is predicated on the fact you are going in response to His Will. What is God asking me to do that requires courage?
2. How has He strengthened me in the past?
3. Am I letting fear stop me from obedience?
4. Am I relying on my own strength or on God's presence?