The Bible isn’t shy about telling its characters to stop shaking in their boots. It’s full of “get it together, we’ve got work to do” moments, and Joshua 1:9 (NASB) is one of the boldest pep talks in Scripture:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9 (NASB)
This isn’t a polite suggestion. It’s a command, straight from God. He’s telling Joshua, “You’ve got this because I’ve got you.”
Let’s dig into what this verse means—not just for Joshua, but for anyone tasked with leading in tough times.
Context: Big Shoes, Bigger Shadows
Joshua steps onto the scene with Moses freshly gone. You know Moses: the guy who squared off with Pharaoh, parted the Red Sea, and got face time with God. Now, Joshua has to take over, leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, which—spoiler—won’t be handed over on a silver platter.
This is where the context gets spicy:
- Israel’s Past: They’re a mess. Whiny, stubborn, and prone to rebellion. Leading them is like herding cats.
- The Promised Land: It’s filled with fortified cities and battle-hardened enemies. This isn’t a casual stroll; it’s a conquest.
- God’s Call: Joshua doesn’t get a free pass to “figure it out.” God says, “Be courageous,” not because Joshua is naturally fearless, but because courage is a choice grounded in trust.
Breaking Down the Command
“Be Strong and Courageous”
This isn’t a “fake it till you make it” mantra. Biblical courage isn’t bravado; it’s obedience despite fear. Courage says, “I’m terrified, but I’ll step forward anyway.”
Strength is about resolve, grit, and spiritual stamina.
Courage is strength with motion—it moves toward the challenge instead of avoiding it.
“Do Not Be Terrified Nor Dismayed”
Terrified? That’s fear taking over before the fight.
Dismayed? That’s discouragement setting in after the fight drags on.
God’s command addresses both the “before” and “after” of fear. It’s comprehensive.
“For the Lord Your God is with You Wherever You Go”
This is the clincher. Courage isn’t self-manufactured—it’s rooted in knowing that God is present. Joshua isn’t alone. This promise echoes through Scripture, from Moses’ burning bush encounter to Jesus’ assurance in Matthew 28:20:
“And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:20 (NASB)
Biblical Examples of Leading with Courage
Joshua isn’t the only guy who got the “don’t chicken out” speech. The Bible is packed with leaders who had to summon courage under fire:
David vs. Goliath (1 Samuel 17)
David doesn’t just march out to face Goliath—he runs to meet him. That’s courage with no brakes. Why? David knows God’s track record:
“The Lord who saved me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will save me from the hand of this Philistine.”
1 Samuel 17:37 (NASB)
Esther Before the King (Esther 4:14-16)
Esther risks her life to save her people. Her courage blooms in the tension of Mordecai’s challenge:
“And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?”
Esther 4:14 (NASB)
Her response? “If I perish, I perish.” She chooses courage over comfort.
Jesus in Gethsemane (Luke 22:42)
Jesus knows the cross is coming. His prayer in Gethsemane reveals the weight of his burden, but also his resolve:
“Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.”
Luke 22:42 (NASB)
Courage isn’t about the absence of fear—it’s about surrendering to God’s will despite it.
Why Courage Matters in Leadership
Leadership isn’t a spectator sport. It’s full-contact, and fear is part of the deal. Here’s why courage is the cornerstone of biblical leadership:
- Courage Inspires Others: Joshua’s bravery sets the tone for the Israelites. When leaders stand firm, others are more likely to follow. Think of how David’s courage inspired the trembling Israelite army to take on the Philistines.
- Courage Means Taking Risks: Whether it’s leading troops into battle or speaking truth to power, courage often means stepping into the unknown. Esther risked everything for her people; Joshua risked his life on God’s promises.
- Courage Honors God: Courageous obedience says, “God, I trust You more than my fear.” It’s an act of worship.
Modern Applications: Courage in Everyday Leadership
Joshua’s story might feel grand, but the principles apply to us today:
- In Parenting: Leading your kids with integrity, even when it’s easier to take shortcuts.
- In the Workplace: Standing for what’s right, even when it’s unpopular or risky.
- In Faith: Sharing your beliefs with compassion and conviction despite the cultural pushback.
Final Thought: Courage is Contagious
The courage God commands isn’t reserved for battlefields or thrones. It’s for the kitchen table, the boardroom, and the mission field. Courage breeds courage. Joshua’s leadership wasn’t perfect, but his bravery sparked a generation to take hold of God’s promises.
So, when fear starts whispering, remember: God doesn’t call the fearless. He calls the faithful. And when you step forward in courage, you’re never stepping alone.
Additional Resources
Books:
These are Amazon affiliate links for these books. We use affiliate links to offset our operating costs. Using them helps us stay online. You don’t have to use these though; you can just search for the book. Happy reading!
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Courageous Leadership
Bill Hybels challenges and equips leaders to step up and lead with courage in a changing world, sharing his experiences and insights to develop effective leadership skills. -
Spiritual Leadership
J. Oswald Sanders emphasizes developing one’s inner spiritual life as a leader, encouraging leaders to prioritize their own spiritual growth.
Web Resources:
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25 Bible Verses about Courage and Bravery
A compilation of scriptures focusing on courage and bravery to inspire and strengthen faith. -
10 Key Bible Verses on Courage
An article highlighting essential scriptures that emphasize the importance of courage in the Christian faith. -
8 Bible Verses to Build Courage
A selection of verses aimed at building courage, accompanied by brief reflections.
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