"Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditated therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."
Joshua had just lost his mentor. Because of his sin, Moses was not permitted to go into the promised land. He died, and Jehovah buried him. In Deuteronomy 34:9 it says, "And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him..." Joshua was Moses' disciple. Joshua had followed Moses ever since the Israelites were freed from Egypt, and now Moses was gone. Not only that, Joshua was expected to lead those stubborn Israelites into the promised land. I'm sure Joshua was afraid, discouraged, dismayed, and not feeling very courageous.
But God had plans for Joshua. He was going to use him in great ways. So the LORD came to Joshua to comfort him and to encourage him. But He didn't just give him empty words. In verse 7 God says to be strong and courageous. But for what purpose? To obey God's Word. And why obey God's Word? To prosper wherever you go. So, if I want to prosper, I need to obey God's Word.
If you're feeling discouraged, weak, sad, or depressed, be strong and courageous! Obey the Word of God, and you will prosper and have success wherever you go. Remember that God is with you at all times. Don't depart from His side, and don't depart from His Word.
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