Fear is common to human beings. Everyone experiences fear, and everyone must deal with it. If you struggle with fear, you are not alone.

We don’t ordinarily think of Joshua as afraid or intimidated, but the fact that God told him not to be fearful or dismayed seems to indicate that even a great warrior and leader like Joshua had to deal with his fear.

What does God tell us about fear, particularly in the call of Joshua (1:1-9)?

First, fear is common to us all. We all experience fear even though our fears may be quite different. While you may have an unusual fear, your being afraid is not unusual.

Second, strength and courage are choices that we make. Courage is not something you were born with. You learn to deal with fear, and you choose to be courageous. It is a choice that you make. The very fact that God commanded strength and courage of Joshua means that he had to choose to be courageous just as you do.

Third, strength and courage are more inward than outward. Dealing adequately with your fear has to do with inner choices that show up in outward ways. God asked Joshua to be strong and courageous long before the battle began.

Fourth, what God commands, He provides. If God asks you to do something, He will give what you need to accomplish His plan. this is a common theme throughout Scripture. God provides what you need to do His will.

Fifth, your courage in difficult times will be an encouragement to other people. This is one of the good things that comes from bad circumstances. When we are faithful and obedient, we teach others to do the same. We all learn from the example and obedience of others.

Finally, God blesses you when you struggle to do right. God told Joshua that he would have success because of his obedience, faith, and courage.

“Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law which Moses my servant commanded you; turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go.”