Christian Living: Be Strong

Joshua 1:7 (NKJV)

“Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go.”

🔹 “Only be strong and very courageous”
• This is a divine command, not just a motivational phrase.
• Joshua is stepping into leadership after Moses—an enormous responsibility.
• God repeats this command multiple times (v.6, v.9) to emphasize that spiritual strength and courage are not optional when leading or walking in obedience.
• “Only” sets the tone: this is the key requirement.

▪️Obedience will require strength. Courage isn’t just for battle—it’s needed to stand firm when tempted to compromise, when leadership is lonely, or when facing the unknown

🔹 “That you may observe to do according to all the law…”
• “Observe” implies watchfulness, attentiveness, discipline.
• Obedience isn’t accidental; it’s intentional.
• God’s law, given through Moses, represented His will, covenant, and moral compass for Israel.
• Joshua must lead not by charisma, but by alignment with God’s Word.

🔹Victory is not just about strategy or strength—it’s about obedience to God’s revealed word. Success in spiritual battles is directly tied to hearing and doing what He commands.

▪️“Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left”
• This symbolizes undivided focus and uncompromised obedience.
• “Right or left” implies any deviation, no matter how minor.
• Temptation often comes disguised as something adjacent to the truth—close enough to seem harmless.

🔹Distraction and compromise often derail destiny more subtly than outright rebellion. Joshua is warned to walk a narrow, obedient path.

▪️“That you may prosper wherever you go”
• This is not about prosperity gospel promises, but about fruitfulness and divine success that flows from obedience.
• God’s favor and provision followed those who walked in covenant alignment.
• This was a military, governmental, and spiritual promise—all rolled into one.

🔹Obedience leads to fruitfulness. Not every step will be easy, but God guarantees that His presence and blessing will rest upon the obedient heart and the upright path.

📌 Point to Ponder

God was calling Joshua to more than just bravery—He was calling him to obedient leadership rooted in unwavering trust. The same is true for us. Strength and courage are not just needed to face giants—but to stay true to God’s voice when the crowd sways, when pressure builds, and when doubt knocks.

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🙏 Suggested Prayer:

“Lord, help me to be strong and very courageous—not in my own strength, but by Your Spirit. Teach me to stay grounded in Your Word and unmoved by distraction. I want to prosper Your way—through obedience, not shortcuts. Lead me on the narrow path, and help me to follow with boldness and faith. Amen.”

Sj🦋