Courage

Courage can be defined as:
the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, or pain. - dictionary.com.

As Joshua was handed the leadership of the people of God in Joshua 1, God reminded him three times to be strong and have courage. Now, why would Joshua need courage?
You see, Joshua had already been into the Promised Land when he was sent as a spy along with 11 other courageous men. On that mission, Joshua witnessed mighty people living in the land. He witnessed strong, fortified cities and he saw great armies occupying the land. Now, God had given him the reigns and told him to go and take the land.
Imagine being Joshua. There are giants to defeat, cities to overtake, and armies to conquer. Moses is dead. The people need a leader.
God told Joshua to be strong. Why? Because he was a great warrior? No, although he was. Because he was Moses apprentice? No, although he was. Because Joshua was a great leader. No, although that is true as well.
God told Joshua to be strong and courageous BECAUSE THE LORD WAS WITH HIM.

If you've read the story, you know that the inhabitants of the land were no match for the people of God.

What about us? Will we, the people of Faith Baptist, be strong and courageous? Will we be people of faith that impact our city for Christ? Will we trust that God is with us and cross the Jordan together? Will we win the battleground for our Lord and commander?

I, for one, believe that God's command for Joshua rings true for us as well. I can't wait to see how He will use each one of us to accomplish great things for His glory.