“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.” (Joshua 1:7)

Shortly following the death of God’s servant, Moses, Joshua was given the grave responsibility of leading the Israelites. Despite Moses’ mistake in the wilderness, he was a great leader. Joshua had big shoes to fill. Comfort was given to Joshua when God told him, “I will not leave you nor forsake you” (v. 5). Further encouragement was given with the command to “Be strong and very courageous.”

Christians have the same responsibility Joshua had, to “observe to do according to all the law.” Trials and tribulation come with this responsibility (cf. 2 Timothy 3:12). However, we don’t need to fear, for God is with us (cf. Romans 8:31). So, in all your spiritual endeavors, “Be strong and very courageous!”