by Pastor Wendall Ward
Strength to Walk in Faith
Throughout history, God’s people have faced moments of uncertainty, challenge, and fear. Today, in this unpredictable and rapidly changing world, the need for courage is essential. Courage is the expression of a disciplined mind—the mind of Christ. That mind is found in Scripture. The ministry of the Holy Spirit offers us guidance. In both we find strength to walk in faith and obedience to God in these uncertain times.
Be Strong and Courageous
The passage from Joshua 1:6-9 is a timeless reminder. Challenging us to be strong and courageous, especially when fulfilling the assignment of God upon our lives. Joshua was called to lead his people into a new land, a land promised to them. But one that required obedience and sacrifice to inherit. God’s repeated command to “be strong and courageous” highlights that courage is not a one-time act. Instead it is an ongoing resolve to obey even the fearful tasks set before us. This is the opposite of the “spirit of timidity.”
Meditate Day and Night
Joshua also emphasizes obedience. “Be careful to obey all the law… do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.” Success and prosperity of God’s purpose are linked not only to strength but to steadfastness in following God’s guidance. Meditating on His word “day and night” is the source of continual renewal and direction. The assurance comes in our understanding that, “the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” We are never alone in our journey because the Holy Spirit is with us to lead us.
A Disciplined Mind
In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul writes, “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power, love, and a disciplined mind.” This message speaks directly to the inner struggles we encounter—fear, uncertainty, and self-doubt. The spirit God gives is not one of retreat or cowardice, but one filled with truth, empowerment, compassion, and self-control. Power means having the ability to act and, in our actions, to care for others even when it is difficult. A “disciplined mind” helps us stay focused and grounded. These are essential qualities for maintaining courage in any generation, especially when challenges seem overwhelming.
What does it mean to be courageous in our present time?
It may mean standing up for what is right, even when it is unpopular. Or it may mean persevering through hardship, holding fast to the anchor of hope, and supporting those around us. We’re called to be intentional, truthful, and compassionate.
At the heart of courage is trust: trust in oneself, in others, but ultimately in God. The encouragement found in the scriptures is that courage. It is not just a personal trait, it is a command to which we are obedient even in the face of fear or insecurity. Faith provides the foundation for courage, reminding us that we are never abandoned, regardless of how uncertain the future appears.
Courage to Cross the Jordan
As we navigate the complexities of our life in this world, remember the call: “Be strong and courageous.” Because in some way, small or great, we are continually crossing the Jordan to enter into a new expression of God’s inheritance. As we do, let us meditate on truth. Then act with love and discipline, and remember that we do not walk alone. With courage rooted in faith, we can face the times in which we live. We do this not with timidity, but with hope and boldness as we partake of God’s promised life.
For more on the topic of divine confidence, check out Dr. Johnnie Blount’s blog . https://bethewordministry.com/god-with-us-god-in-us-living-with-divine-confidence/
Or for more encouragement from Pastor Wendall Ward, check out this blog on Spiritual Transformation. https://bethewordministry.com/inner-transformation/