Daily Devotional
"Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go."
Joshua 1:7
We often think of courage as a personality trait; some people are just naturally brave, while others are not. But Scripture presents courage differently. For Joshua, courage wasn’t about his temperament; it was about his obedience to God’s Word. “Be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law.”
Courage is a spiritual discipline, like prayer or fasting. It’s something we practice, not something we either have or don’t have. And like any discipline, it grows stronger with use. Every time we choose to obey God despite our fears, our courage muscle gets a little stronger. Every time we take a step of faith when our knees are shaking, we’re practicing the discipline of courage.
Notice the warning: “Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left.” Courage requires focus. It’s easy to be distracted by fear, to be pulled off course by what-ifs and worst-case scenarios. But spiritual courage keeps its eyes fixed on God’s commands and promises, moving straight ahead in obedience.
The promise attached is success, but not as the world defines it. Biblical success is “good success,” accomplishing God’s purposes, fulfilling His will. It’s not about personal achievement or worldly accolades. It’s about faithful obedience, regardless of the outcome.
Today's Challenge
How can you practice the discipline of courage today? What step of obedience have you been avoiding because of fear? Practice the discipline of courage by doing one thing today that obedience requires but fear has prevented. It doesn't have to be big - just one step forward in faith.
Prayer
Lord, I confess that I've often waited to feel courageous before obeying You. Help me understand that courage is not a feeling but a discipline. Just as I would never say "I don't feel like praying," help me to stop saying "I don't feel brave enough." Give me the strength to practice courage today by taking one step of obedience despite my fears. Keep my eyes fixed on Your commands, not turning to the right or left. In Jesus' name, Amen.
