"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."
The task before Joshua was monumental: Claim the land that had been promised to Abraham hundreds of years ago. Enter the place that, forty years prior, was closed off to the Israelites because of their fear. Yet, God had prepared Joshua to complete the great work set before him.
Three times, the Lord commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous, but not by human might. For the Lord, sang the Psalmist, is my strength (Psalm 118:14). And in these words to Joshua, we see what it means to be strong in the Lord. He calls us to hold fast to His promises, trusting in His unchanging faithfulness. He instructs us to meditate on the truth of His word, so that we may walk in obedience while His word provides light for our path. And finally, He invites us to know the peace and assurance that He is with us always.