A Pep Talk for the Discouraged
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” -Joshua 1:9
My seven-year-old son has this verse on a large piece of artwork hanging over his bunk bed. He says he loves it because it reminds him that he’s brave and never alone. He likes to think of it as having his own personal pep talk from God. You might think a second grader doesn’t have much to fear or be discouraged about, but it’s really a matter of perspective. For my son, struggling with a new math concept is discouraging. Walking into a new school for the first time takes courage. Standing up to bullies requires strength and confidence. What about you? What discourages you? What challenges do you face each day that takes courage, fortitude, and strength? Whatever you’re up against, consider these words from God in Joshua 1:9 as your pep talk: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
These words were originally spoken by God to Joshua, just after the death of Moses. God was preparing Joshua to take over as the leader of the Israelites; it was a monumental task. There’s a good chance Joshua felt alone, insecure, ill-equipped, and downright terrified. Wouldn’t you? God’s words of assurance must have worked though, because right after hearing them, Joshua got straight to work (v. 10), the anthem “Be strong and courageous” ringing in his ears.
Joshua’s career as a leader was only just beginning. He fought battle after battle, each one requiring more strength and courage than the last. His victories were endless, yet he won none of them alone. As promised, God was with him wherever he went. Today, let the same words empower you too. Imagine your heavenly Father kneeling down to meet your eyes, holding you gently by the shoulders, and saying, “You’ve got this! There’s nothing to be afraid of. I’m with you and we’ll do it together!”
Study & Reflection: Read through Psalm 121 and listen well to the assurances God provides for you. Underline or highlight specific words that fill you with confidence.
“I lift up my eyes to the mountains- where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip- he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you- the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm- he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”
Prayer: Print or write out Joshua 1:9 and stick it on your mirror this week. Read God’s pep talk for you whenever you start to feel afraid, discouraged, or weak. You’ve got this, and God’s got you!