Hello Fear: I’m Here to Conquer Youنموونە

Face It: Fear Will Not Have the Last Word

Fear can shout loudly when we are standing at the edge or when we are walking into something new. Fear wants to have a hold on us and keep us from seeing that if we just take that one bold step, God will be there to guide, encourage, and protect. Joshua shows us a good example of how to face fear and not let it have the last word.

On four occasions in verses 6, 7, 9, and 18, God asked Joshua to “be strong and courageous.” What is vitally important is that Joshua had to choose to believe that God’s Spirit was in him, and that his faith needed to be greater than his fear.

Fear cannot stop the purpose God has already placed in you. Joshua had every reason to feel fear after Moses’ death. The task ahead was huge. It was a daunting act of leading an entire nation into new territory. But God commanded him, “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). The weight could have crushed him. Yet God kept telling him, “Do not be afraid,” reminding him that the battle was not his alone.

God was with him every step of the way. Joshua chose boldness over fear and led the Israelites into the Promised Land because he trusted God’s presence. Most often, fear tries to have the final say by telling us we’re not enough. But God equips us with power, love, and a sound mind. The tools that make fear irrelevant. When we face fear head-on with this God-given strength, fear is stripped of its authority and rendered powerless.

The best way to identify one new opportunity or decision where fear is making you hesitate is to not let its voice speak louder than God’s voice. I recently had to write Joshua 1:9 on a sticky note and place it on my mirror in order to see it daily. I knew that it was the action needed to give me bold courage to continue walking toward my goal.

I want to encourage you to think of one decision you’ve been putting off because of fear. Write down Joshua 1:9 and put it where you’ll see it often this week. Speak it over yourself and believe it as you take one brave action step.

Prayer:
Father, thank You that You have given me a spirit of power, love, and self-control. Help me embrace every new challenge with courage. Teach me to face fear as Joshua did. Allow me to rely on Your promises and strength. Thank You that fear is not my inheritance. Strengthen me like You strengthened Joshua. Help me face my fears knowing that You go before me, and You will not leave me. In Your Name I Pray. Amen.