Perhaps you have noticed a preponderance of “p” words this week: a proper patterned panoply of provocation toward godly courage. We have seen the importance of God’s promises, provision, and presence in the promotion of courage. Moreover, God’s presence is powerful, personal, and permanent! So it is fitting that the final presentation from Joshua 1 relates to … practice!
God says to Joshua, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. (Joshua 1:8)” It echoes Moses’ instructions from Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” The Scriptures were to be the everyday habit and sustenance for Joshua; a practiced habit that would develop and sustain courage.
Something to Apply:
Courage is not a natural instinct in humans; it must be cultivated, nurtured, and trained. Just as muscles develop with use, our courage develops as it is exercised. Think about your typical daily habits. How many of them promote the development of godly courage? If you are not already, consider making one of our Story of Everything bible reading programs a regular practice. Therein you will find God’s promises and provision, and find yourself strengthened in his presence!