Lies We Believe – Week Three

There is a common misconception that fear is the opposite of faith. Based on that faulty thinking, we often feel disqualified and convince ourselves that we are not brave and bold enough to be used by God. If you are feeling a little (or a lot) intimidated or afraid today, there is good news – most of the renowned heroes in the Bible experienced fear. Maybe this is why I love Joshua’s story so much. 

Joshua’s mentor was one of the most remarkable men in history – Moses. Moses not only led the nation of Israel out of Egypt, but he also had a deep, intimate friendship with God. When Moses died, God spoke directly to Joshua, telling him to lead the Israelites into the promised land. God explained that every place Joshua stepped, God would give to him and the people. And He promised that He would be with Joshua and never fail him. 

Then God challenged Joshua, “Be strong and courageous, for you shall give this people possession of the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous…” (Joshua 1:6-7 NASB) 

Did you note the phrase repeated here? Be strong and courageous. Why do you think God felt the need to repeat these words? My guess is He knew that Joshua was feeling neither strong nor courageous. Instead, Joshua was probably thinking of all the reasons he was not the right man for the job, all the things that could go wrong, and how terrified he felt. 

But God was not concerned with Joshua’s fears. He gave Him simple instructions – cling to the word of God, meditate on it day and night, and walk according to that word. The result? Success and prosperity would follow. (Joshua 1:8)

In other words, Joshua’s success was not wrapped up in his strength but in following God’s way. Joshua needed to choose courage in the face of fear, faith amid doubt, and confidence in God over his insecurities. 

Oh, and guess what, God wrapped us His communication with Joshua by repeating that key phrase yet again, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

I have learned that whenever God is directing my steps, I will most likely need to wrestle through fear. On the one hand, fear is one of my biggest enemies. It can hold me back and keep me on the sidelines. But fear can also motivate me. Fear can show me I am on the right track and help me recognize my need for God. 

The truth is our faith is never really about us. It is about Who we trust. In Hebrews, we learn, “Without faith it is impossible to please [God], for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6)

Remember God’s last words to Joshua? I am with you wherever you go. Those are the exact words Jesus said to the disciples (and to you and me) right before He ascended into heaven. After commissioning these men to go into all the world and share the gospel, He explained how they would accomplish this daunting task, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

Walking with God is not for the fainthearted. Faith pushes us beyond where we are comfortable, past the lines we draw for ourselves, and into an unknown and uncharted future. 

As we walk in faith, our humanity will surface. The script in our heads will remind us of all the reasons we should be afraid and back down.

Like Joshua, I believe God is repeating to you and me, “Be strong and courageous! Be strong and courageous! Be strong and courageous!”

So, if fear has a hold on your heart and mind, choose courage. Look to God and trust Him.