William Seeker, a 17th-century clergyman, is quoted as saying, “Another singular action of a sanctified Christian is to prefer the duty he owes God to the danger he fears from man. Christians in all ages have prized their services above their safety. ‘The wicked flee when no man [is pursuing]; but the righteous are bold as a lion.’ ”
After Moses’ death, God prepared Joshua to be as bold as a lion so he could lead the Israelites across the Jordan River and into the promised land of Canaan (Joshua 1:1-9). God knew many risks, difficulties, and oppositions (within and without) lay ahead of His chosen leader and His chosen people. So Joshua would need to act bravely during the difficult days and to do dangerous things out of obedience to God.
In a span of several verses, God used powerful words to build courage into Joshua’s heart: “Wherever you set foot, you will be on land I have given you” (Joshua 1:3); “No one will be able to stand against you” (Joshua 1:5); “I will be with you . . . I will not fail you or abandon you” (Joshua 1:5); “Be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:6); “The Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
What was Joshua’s response to God’s promise of His abiding presence and blessing? He chose to follow diligently God’s words and to believe that He would strengthen, guard, and protect him (Joshua 1:10-11).
As believers in Jesus, we’re called to do things that can be difficult (talking to our neighbors about Jesus), risky (ministering to the marginalized), and even potentially dangerous (taking the gospel to unreached people groups) out of obedience to God. As God promised Joshua, He has promised to be with us (Hebrews 13:5). Let’s boldly obey His Word and declare His truth.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Acts 11:19-29
More:
Just as He did with Joshua, God gave encouraging words to King Jehoshaphat. Read 2 Chronicles 20:15-19.
Next:
How has God moved you from the cramped space of fear to the open space of courage and obedience? What risky or dangerous thing is He calling you to do out of obedience to Him and His Word?
jstabel on October 26, 2011 at 3:47 am
I am standing at that point now(talking to our neighbors about Christ-those that claim to know him but refuse to acknowledge him openly).I certainly need prayers and encouragement.
marvin williams on November 6, 2011 at 4:32 am
Praying that God will make you bold as a lion – even the Lion of Judah. Blessings!
jesusmysavior on October 26, 2011 at 7:39 am
To jstabel,
I will surely pray for you and for others who boldly minister to people who needs Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. I myself need prayers as well, to convince my husband ‘coz he is a muslim.
I pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit to lead us and provide us with the exact words that they need to hear and that they may soften their hearts to the LORD.
marvin williams on November 6, 2011 at 4:35 am
Jesusismysavior, I am praying that God will give you wisdom and boldness to be salt and light and that all your words be seasoned with grace. Keep praying for your husband and being Jesus to him.
lindagma on October 26, 2011 at 8:19 am
At a Christian Business meeting last week, a fellow Christian said he was working with a group that is exposing human trafficking…apparently pretty prevalent in Fl. and helping those who are in bondage. My heart was pricked and it has been on my mind ever since. I’m thinking God is prodding me to get involved in this ministry.
marvin williams on November 6, 2011 at 4:38 am
Wow! That is is bold move that certainly requires bold prayers. Linda, I am praying that God will give you boldness to stand for and live out justice in this context. Blessings!
GChoo on October 26, 2011 at 8:51 am
Marvin, thanks for your devo.
I believe many a times our fear is of rejection and the lack of Bible knowledge. In the past, I had this fear as well and felt inadequate to talk to people about God. In fact, most people they do know about the Bible at the press of a button if they want to find out more. It is our own testimonies (old and more so the recent ones) that non christians are more interested to know and how we live out God’s teachings that will help them understand the real God we are talking about. Be brave to share what God has done in our lives. Also, ask ourselves, are we there for our neighbours when they are in need? For example, when it snows, do we offer our help when we know their car is stuck etc. Even our own relatives and acquaintances, do we show our concern for them. It is important to pray, read His Word daily to keep us right in our speech and action. It is not easy but we keep reminding ourselves.
My husband is not a christian yet but thank God he is not against our faith. I continue to pray for his salvation because I know one day God will free him from whatever is holding him back. I know God has his time for everyone. Through many years of prayers, God eventually shown His mercies for my parents and deceased brother (were idol worshippers) who received their salvation some years ago.
jstabel and jesusmysaviour, thank you for your sharing and will keep you in prayer. God bless.
marvin williams on November 6, 2011 at 4:42 am
GChoo, we prayed for my father for many years to become a believer. It look patience and living the Christian life before him before he finally gave his heart to Jesus. Keep lifting him up before the Lord and being Jesus to him. We plant. Others water. God is the one who gives the increase.
lyndygayle on October 26, 2011 at 11:11 am
It is so encouraging to read the posts of fellow believers….to see your hearts and desires to be obedient to God. I think this is what the word means when is says “iron sharping iron”. Thank you for allowing God to use you to encourage me today.
marvin williams on November 6, 2011 at 4:44 am
I concur. There is nothing like being encouraged by fellow believers who are journeying to be bold as lions. Thank you for encouraging me with your transparency and your open hearts.
bearpair on October 26, 2011 at 2:55 pm
Thanks Marvin! Joshua,,, & Caleb–what a dynamic duo!
We live in such a “Christian-comfortable”environment here in the US, that we often forget the courage it takes simply to 1. become a believer in Christ, and then, 2. to let anyone even know of that identity… so many people in the world at risk for the simplest & most basic of reasons–to love & serve our risen Savior!
marvin williams on November 6, 2011 at 4:49 am
It really is that simple, but we live in a post- Christian age, where people are even suspicious of Christians. I suppose we have given people reason to doubt who we are. We must find new ways to reach people with the love of Jesus. The front door is closed; we must go through the back door, and maybe the back door is good works/deeds that point to the love and grace of God.
winn collier on October 28, 2011 at 7:57 am
I’ve been thinking about how the Kingdom of God doesn’t make us want to be subversive, but living the Kingdom way will inevitably have such an effect. Boldness and courage in the Spirit are fruits of this Kingdom Life – the kind of courage you are calling us too. Thank you.
marvin williams on November 6, 2011 at 4:59 am
Winn, I agree. I have tried to be bold in my own strength and have failed miserably. However, when I sense the Spirit’s promptings, and am reasonably certain this is the way Jesus would respond, then I have a boldness and confidence that comes from rivers of living waters. Thanks for adding your voice to this conversation. Blessings on you. Also, thanks for being a blessing in my life with your devotions.