Be Strong and Courageous

“Be strong and courageous.” This is one of my all-time favorite phrases in the Bible. 2 out of 3 of my favorite coffee mugs have this printed on them. I’m sure that you have seen this printed on posters, t-shirts, bumper stickers, and keychains as well. If that isn’t enough, “Be strong and courageous can be found in the Bible multiple times in various ways. Out of those, Joshua 1:9 has impacted me the most personally. 

For context, God says this to Joshua after appointing him leader of the Israelites after the death of Moses. It was now his responsibility to lead an entire nation of (sometimes difficult) people into the land God had promised them. Saying that this was a daunting task is a huge understatement. Joshua had to feel at least a little anxious about his new assignment. Which is probably why God says “Be strong and courageous.” to him.

This story is so relatable to me. So many times, God has had me step into something new that felt way too big for me. From investing myself into a new church, taking up new leadership positions, and eventually leaving it all behind to be a full-time missionary. Along with those, I can’t leave out marriage and fatherhood. All were big scary moves.  Joshua 1:9 has encouraged me to take the first step in every one of these undertakings. 

       Allow me to be very clear. The only reason that I can be strong and courageous in all the adventures that God places before me is because of the last part of this scripture. It reads “for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go.” Neither Joshua nor I can be strong and courageous without knowing that God is with us. With God, there is never anything to fear. So, as we enjoy our special day today, (Yes “we”. It is my birthday as well.) I pray that we stay mindful that God is with us wherever we go. With that truth in our hearts, only then can we really be strong and courageous as we face the new opportunities and challenges that come. God Bless.

Frank H

   ’80 / ’94  San Jose Costa Rica

Doris Jean H

’44 / ’55 Manheim PA