A child had to walk each evening past a dark, spooky house. Some adult friends tried to give him courage. One handed him a good-luck charm to ward off the ghosts. Another installed a light at a particularly dark corner near the house. A third took a more spiritual approach, saying, “It’s sinful to be afraid. Trust God and be brave!” It was good advice, but
not much help. Then one friend said with compassion, “I know what it is to be afraid. I’ll walk with you past the house.” Instantly the child’s fears were gone.
This was what God did for Joshua. Joshua faced the fearful task of leading a group of nomads against the trained armies of established kingdoms. That was enough to make even the bravest man tremble. But God did more than give Joshua a battle plan or a pep talk; He reassured him, saying, “I will be with you wherever you go.”
God does not promise He will not lead you into fearful situations. He may call you to serve Him in a land far from your friends and family. For most of us this challenge could be frightening. Or God may ask you to stand against the tide of popular opinion at your work place or at a dinner with friends. And again, your knees may knock and your voice tremble. But just like Joshua, you can do it because God also has given you the solution for your fears: He has given you Himself.
In Christ you have strength for every weakness and the courage for every fear. The psalmist said, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death [literally, the valley of dark shadows], I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4). Are you facing a formidable task, or a situation that is giving you sleepless nights? Trust God’s presence to dispel your fears and give you renewed strength and courage.
Courage is spelled C-H-R-I-S-T. (DR WOODROW KROLL)