Joshua 1:6-9
Be strong and of good courage, for to this people you shall divide as an inheritance the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. 7 Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
The above scripture verses reference the exchanges, or rather instructions given by God to Joshua as the Israelites were about to cross Jordan and take possession of the land of Canaan. This is after Moses had died, and Joshua had taken over as a leader chosen by God.
It will seem these three verses combine the tone of instruction and encouragement – Joshua was being instructed on how to be successful, and at the same time encouraged to be courageous. As a matter of fact, the admonition to be strong and courageous was repeated at the start of most of these verses.
However, further analysis of God’s instructions to Joshua reveal some elements that are necessary for courage to occur! These elements are what I term ‘ingredients for courage’. Come with me as we dive into this subject a little bit deeper.
Obedience to God’s instructions: In Joshua 1:7, God commands strict attention and obedience to the law (God’s word) given by Moses, if Joshua was to be successful. True courage comes when we partner with God in any endeavor. It is incumbent on us to obtain directions and instructions from God in order to be courageous in whatever we attempt.
Confession & meditation of God’s word: In verse 8, Joshua is admonished to confess and meditate on God’s word day and night! You wonder what this has got to do with the impending battle? God knows that His word is powerful, and the continual confession of that word will build faith in their hearts. Likewise, the meditation and confession of God’s word produce faith in our hearts; and this, in turn, builds courage in us.
Abiding in God’s presence: Finally, in verse 9, God emphasizes the assurance of His presence. God said to Joshua ‘I will be with you wherever you go’. Courage grows when you obtain the assurance of God’s presence. Obtaining His involvement in any endeavor cultivates courage, and guarantees success!
These three points above are ingredients for courage – that is, the component parts of the mixture that produces courage.