Face Fear - God is with You

Why did God command Joshua, "to be strong and courageous, do not be afraid, do not be discouraged."

Answer: Because he was afraid and discouraged.

 God sent Moses into Egypt to end 400 years of slavery and to lead the Israelites out of Egypt to the promised land of Canaan, modern day Israel. After a 40-year journey, the Israelites were finally prepared to enter Canaan. Just days prior to entering Canaan, Joshua replaced Moses as the leader of Israel.

To settle the land in peace, the Israelites had to defeat the Canaanites. The Israelites were armed with simple wooden weapons and their first battle was against the fortified city of Jericho protected by Soldiers armed with metal weapons.

Joshua was a mighty warrior, he trusted God, he witnessed God perform miracles, and he knew God promised Canaan to Israel. However, he was afraid. Why?

He was a new leader, his men had never fought a battle, he was entering an unknown territory, he was out numbered, and he was attacking a city with walls six feet wide, and 16 feet tall. He had no breaching equipment, no catapults, and no ladders. His fear was natural and it was based on the facts. How do we know Joshua was afraid and discouraged?

The answer is simple. God would not have repeatedly commanded him to be strong and courageous, to not be afraid or discouraged, if he was not afraid and discouraged. When God repeats Himself, He is serious and we are wise to listen. However, His command to Joshua came with a promise of "for I will be with you wherever you go."

In spite of his fear, Joshua obeyed God. He fought the battle and Israel was victorious. In spite of the obstacles, in spite of the circumstances, he trusted God. God kept His promise, and He always keeps His promises. That meant, He was with Joshua before the battle, in the battle, and after the battle.

God's promise was not only for Joshua. His promise is for every believer. When you believe in Jesus Christ, and you accept Him as your Lord and Savior, you are forgiven of your sins, and you will have eternal life in Heaven with God.

God will be with you wherever you go. He will never leave you or forsake you. He is there when you face fear, adversity, disease, betrayal, and death. He will never leave you or forsake you. You are never alone. He will strengthen you, encourage you, and if necessary, He will carry you.

There is no shame in being afraid. Courage is not the opposite of being afraid. Courage is doing the right thing in spite of the fear you feel. When you do the right thing, you will be in good company with Joshua, Moses, Abraham, Daniel, Joseph, Rahab, David, Mary, Peter, Paul, John, and most importantly Jesus.