C O U R A G E

Joshua 1:6-7

When does your sport demand courage of you?  Is it when you face superior competition?  Does playing through injuries require courage?  Is courage a factor in overcoming fatigue?  What role does courage play in overcoming adversity?  Today’s scripture links strength and courage in a powerful combination.

In the historical book of Joshua in the first chapter and verses 6 through 7 we read, “Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers 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 the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.”

Joshua had just taken leadership of his people after Moses had died and this was what God told him as he assumed this most intimidating role.  Twice God said to be strong and courageous.  The second time He said to be very courageous.  Courage would obviously be a most important quality for Joshua’s leadership.

What are the situations in today’s competition that may require you to be strong and very courageous?  You probably thought of some as we opened the issue earlier.  Some of those could be as scary to you as replacing Moses would have been to Joshua.

The Lord’s word to you today is the same as it was to Joshua, several millennia ago.  He would say, “Be strong and very courageous.”  Walk boldly into today’s competition with strength and confidence.  Take on your opponent with great courage and determination to win.

Bible Reading Plan:
Psalms 9
Genesis 25-26