The Great Comforter
Have you ever been afraid to do something because you did not know what was going to happen when you did it? For example, if you find out that you are going to have to move to a new area, you could have some apprehensions. It does not matter if it is just a few blocks or hundreds of miles away. There can be a lot of fear involved. You are going to have to make new friends when you are suddenly yanked from your comfortable circle. You might have to go to a new school. This can be especially difficult if you have never done it before. You will probably wonder, “Will they accept me? Will I like the teacher? Will anyone want to become friends with me?” All these things could be spinning through your head which brings about fear.
The Lord gives us comfort about this. He says in Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” This passage can give us more confidence to face the unexpected, because whatever happens, He will be with us and listen to our troubles. He will make sure that nothing happens to us that we cannot handle. Even though we may think we can’t, God will help us out if we ask.
Joshua was to be the next leader of Israel in this chapter. He had the important task of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land after 40 years. He did not know the dangers which lay ahead of him or what type of people he would encounter. He only knew they were heathen. He was probably afraid and possibly doubted whether or not he could handle it. God told him and us, “Be courageous.”
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: In what ways is Joshua like us? How can we take comfort in this?
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Thank God for this promise of comfort. If you are struggling with the unknown, tell God about it.