Be Strong and of Good Courage

Be Strong and of Good Courage

Lesson Objective: To understand that we have nothing to fear but fear itself when we follow the commands of God.

Scripture: Joshua 1:1-9, Proverbs 3:6, Isa 58:11-12

Introduction:

  1. The phrase “we have nothing to fear but fear itself” was said by Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the United States, in his first inaugural address on March 4, 1933. He used it to inspire hope and courage during the Great Depression.
  2. This is applicable today as well for we often do not go outside of our comfort zone due to fear of failure
  3. What are you afraid of because we all have our fears.

Joshua

Joshua 1: 1-6 1 After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. 3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. 5 No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them

  1. God made a promise to Joshua
  2. Provided words of encouragement

Joshua 1: 7-9 “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. 8 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. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

  1. There is some expectations that comes with the promise.
    1. God expects Joshua to keep his commandments
    2. God expects Joshua to meditate daily on the instructions from God
    3. God expects Joshua not to be afraid
  2. What do you think would have happened if Joshua had failed the expectations

Proverbs 3:6

In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

  1. What are some factors that causes us not to submit to the instructions from God
    1. Fear of failure
    2. EGO (Edging God Out)
    3. Listening to others
  2. How does submitting to God make life so much easier
    1. Helps us to make better decisions
    2. Removes the temptation of sin
  3. This verse reminds us of the importance of relying on God’s wisdom and guidance in our lives

Isaiah 58:11-12

11 The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. 12 Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.

 

  1. Why is it important to have a guide when traveling?
    1. The guide knows where the danger lies
    2. The guide knows what to do when danger does appear
  2. This passage conveys the message that when we align ourselves with God’s will and live according to His principles, He will provide for us, empower us, and use us to bring healing and restoration to our surroundings.

Summary

  1. We all have a life changing decision to make
    1. Live a life in fear of making mistakes and choosing what the world may say is the safest route
    2. We can submit to God and follow him
    3. Live a life of courage and knowing that God is in control and we need not worry
  2. Overall, these verses encourage us to be strong and courageous, trust in God’s guidance, and live in obedience to His commands. With faith in God, we can overcome challenges, make wise decisions, and experience His blessings in our lives.