Learning on the way
Be Strong and Courageous: A Study of Joshua 1:3-9
Sermon Summary
This sermon explores spiritual courage through Joshua 1:3-9, beginning with the powerful testimony of Polycarp, a second-century Christian martyr who demonstrated that true courage comes not from inner strength but from God’s presence and promises. As Joshua stands at the threshold of leading Israel into the Promised Land, God gives him three essential truths: You are not alone (God is with you), you are not powerless (God commands courage), and you are not directionless (God has spoken). The sermon emphasizes that courage is not a personality trait but a spiritual discipline rooted in God’s presence and His Word. Like Joshua, we face impossible tasks, but our success comes through dependence on God, not human wisdom or strength.
Key Points
- You are not alone; God’s presence is permanent and unchanging
- You are not powerless; courage comes from God, not from within
- You are not directionless; God’s Word provides clear guidance
- Courage is a spiritual discipline, not a personality trait
- Success is defined by accomplishing God’s will, not human achievement
- Scripture-saturated obedience is the key to sustained courage
Small Group Questions
- The sermon began with Polycarp’s story of martyrdom. His courage came from 86 years of experiencing God’s faithfulness. Share about a time when remembering God’s past faithfulness gave you courage to face a current challenge.
- God tells Joshua three times to “be strong and courageous.” Why do you think Joshua (and we) need constant encouragement? What areas of your life require God’s repeated reassurance right now?
- Dale said, “Courage isn’t about how you feel. It’s about who you trust.” How does this truth change the way you approach situations that make you afraid?
- In verse 8, God commands Joshua to meditate on His Word “day and night.” What lies do you find yourself believing that need to be replaced with God’s truth? What specific Scripture could you memorize to combat those lies?
- How does knowing that “you are not alone” change the way you face the impossible tasks in your life? Share about a current situation where you need to remember God’s presence.
- The pastor described Scripture as “a lamp unto your feet,” showing just enough light for the next few steps. How can this understanding help you when you’re anxious about the future?
Key Verses
Joshua 1:3-9, Hebrews 13:5-6, Hebrews 12:2, Psalm 119:105
Application On The Way
This week, identify one area where fear or uncertainty is paralyzing you. Write down the specific fear, then find and memorize one Scripture verse that speaks God’s truth into that situation. Each morning, speak that truth aloud to yourself and take one concrete step of obedience in that area, regardless of how you feel.
Want to Go Deeper?
Additional passages to study:
Questions for personal reflection:
- Read Deuteronomy 31:6-8, where Moses passes leadership to Joshua. How does understanding Joshua’s background of being in Moses’ shadow help you relate to his need for encouragement? What “shadows” are you stepping out of that require God’s courage?
- Consider 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” How does this verse expand your understanding of the courage God provides? Which of these three aspects (power, love, self-control) do you most need in your current circumstances?