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Devotion Day 5: Courage to Face FearsScripture Focus: "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." – Joshua 1:9 (NIV)What Does Joshua 1:9 Say to Us Today?Joshua 1:9 is a timeless message—God speaks directly to the heart of every person who stands on the edge of something new, challenging, or unknown.This scripture is God’s personal encouragement for us to face our fears and uncertainties, not with our own confidence, but with the assurance that we are never alone.Today, this verse says:

• God understands we will encounter moments that require strength and courage, whether in family, work, health, or faith.
• We are commanded to be strong and courageous—not because we are never afraid, but because He is with us in every situation.
• Fear and discouragement do not have the final say. Even when we feel overwhelmed, we can rise because God’s presence goes with us, guiding and sustaining us.
• Just as He was with Joshua entering uncharted territory, God promises to be faithful to us—wherever life takes us.

In summary: Joshua 1:9 invites every believer to step out boldly into the challenges of today, certain that God is by our side. With Him as our constant companion, we have every reason to live with courage and hope.Affirmation: I am courageous, for God is with me wherever I go.IntroductionFear is something everyone faces at different points in life. Whether it’s a big change, a new challenge, or an uncertain future, fear tries to hold us back. But God calls us not just to manage our fear, but to overcome it with courage—courage that comes not from our own strength, but from knowing we are never alone.Backstory on Joshua 1:9The Book of Joshua opens at a pivotal moment. Moses, the revered leader of Israel, has passed away, and now Joshua is called to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land—a daunting, almost terrifying task. God knows Joshua is faced with uncertainty, opposition, and the huge responsibility of stepping into Moses’ shoes. That’s why God tells Joshua not once, but three times to be strong and courageous. God promises, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Joshua 1:5). Our courage, then, is not due to our power or ability, but because God is with us at every step.A Unique Bible Story: The Widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-16)While many speak of David and Goliath, here’s a rarely-mentioned story: During a severe famine, God sends Elijah to a widow at Zarephath. She is gathering sticks to cook her last meal for herself and her son before resigning to death. Elijah asks her to first make bread for him. Full of fear and uncertainty, she chooses faith over fear, believing God’s promise through Elijah. Her courage leads to a miracle: her jar of flour and jug of oil never run dry. God shows that true courage often means trusting Him, even when the odds seem impossible or when we’re at our weakest.Word of the Day: EMBOLDENTo embolden means to give someone the courage or confidence to do something. Today, let God’s presence embolden you to face what scares you.3 Powerful Takeaways

1. God’s Presence Drives Out Fear – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4)
2. Courage is a Command, Not a Suggestion – Notice that God commands Joshua to be courageous. Courage is a choice we make by faith, not based on our feelings. “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” (Psalm 27:14)
3. God Uses the Fearful to Accomplish Great Things – The widow of Zarephath had very little, but in her moment of fear, she acted courageously and faithfully. Her story shows us that God rewards trustful courage.

3 Ways to Apply Courage Today (with Scripture)

1. Pray Bold Prayers
   • “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition