What is courage?

Courage is the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear; bravery.

– Dictionary.com

The English word courage flows out of the Latin term cor which means heart and French corage which means from the heart. The Old English understanding of courage was to view the heart as the seat of feelings or emotions. Courage is emotional strength that lifts us up in moments of weakness.

Courage is being scared to death – but saddling up anyway

– John Wayne

Historical Background

The connection to the past
The change in leadership
The coming conflict

God calls on Joshua

Israel is dealing with the death of Moses
Israel is depending on a leader
Israel is directed to go forward
Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leadrs seize the opportunity to change things for the better – Harry Truman

God confirms His promises

Promise of the Promised Land
Promise to prevail
Promise of Presence

God commands Joshua to be courageous

In my experience, God rarely makes our fear disappear. Instead, He asks us to be strong and to take courage.

– Bruce Wilkerson

Courage to meet the objective
Courage to remain obedient
Courage to overcome the enemy

How should we respond?

Understand that God is calling
Never underestimate God’s promises
Allow God to unleash His courage in you