When I think of Joshua, I imagine someone who must have felt overwhelmed.
He was only Moses’ assistant, yet after Moses’ death, God appointed him to lead the Israelites and bring them across the Jordan River into the land God had promised. That’s a huge responsibility to place on someone’s shoulders.
But here’s what’s beautiful: even though the task was heavy, God reminded Joshua that He would never abandon him . He told him to be strong and courageous and gave him the key to a successful life: “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful” (Joshua 1:8).
This passage came alive for me in this season of my life because God has been calling me to step out of my comfort zone and that isn’t easy for me.
I’m naturally an introvert and change is hard for me. So, when I was stuck in a toxic job environment and realized I needed to look for another job, I felt paralyzed. The thought of sitting through interviews, being judged, and possibly being rejected made me want to run the other way.
And then came something even bigger: trusting God to start a business. With no business background or experience, it felt impossible.
I didn’t feel equipped, ready, or even capable.
But Joshua 1:1–9 reminded me that yes, God does sometimes call us into things that feel too big for us.
He calls us into things that stretch us and push us beyond what we think we can handle. And still, He promises over and over again that He will never abandon us.
The same God who guided Moses and Joshua is the same God who guides us today. He left us His Word, written through the Holy Spirit, to guide us when life feels overwhelming. And when we meditate on it and seek His face daily, He leads us to success, not always the success the world defines but true success in Him.
Scripture
"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 to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:7–9
How to Be Strong and Courageous
Those same words “be strong and courageous” are not just for Joshua. They’re for us too.
If you’ve been holding back because of fear, let this be your reminder to be strong and courageous. You can change careers. You can walk away from toxic environments. You can step into the new opportunities God is placing in front of you, even when you feel unsure.
Because faith isn’t about having everything figured out, it’s about trusting the One who does. And even when we don’t understand why He’s leading us a certain way, we can trust that His ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:8–9).
Scriptures to Hold Onto
-
“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” — Hebrews 13:6
Read it on Bible Gateway - “So do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10
Read it on Bible Gateway - “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” — 2 Timothy 1:6–7
Read it on Bible Gateway - “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…” — Psalm 46:1–3
Read it on Bible Gateway - Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; ” — Psalm 55:22
Read it on Bible Gateway - “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged…” — Joshua 1:9 Read it on Bible Gateway
Heart to Heart Questions
- What is God calling you to do right now that feels impossible or scary?
- What does it mean to you to be strong and courageous?
- When was the last time you stepped out in faith, even when you felt unqualified?
- Which of the verses above speaks to your situation the most?
- What small step of courage can you take this week, trusting God will be with you?
Let’s Stay Connected
If this post spoke to you, I would love to stay connected. Join the newsletter for blog updates and receive 10% off your first fragrance purchase when the shop officially launches.