Introduction: Challenges are inevitable, but victory in Christ Jesus is sure and real – John 16:33 “..In this world you will have trouble (challenges). But take heart!(rest assure!) I have overcome (procured victory for you) the world.”
Challenges are the test to pass before claiming success. Please, don’t be deceived, I have heard many saying challenges of life do not exist, but in my little time, I had also seen them became the victims. Yet, in the midst of fears and challenges, God gives a sure word of promise not to fear.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.” – Isaiah 43:2
The word of God is true and did establish fear and challenges do exist, but His love is real and much more powerful than fear and challenges of life. As a matter of fact, His love is the the solution to fear and challenges. When we secure the love of God – the Jesus Christ the Shepard.
“The Lord is my shepherd; …, Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil; …” – Psalm 23: 1,4.
It will interest you to know that His word is what gives courage in the midst of fears and challenges.
“… For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff (words), they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4
It is the word of God that gives courage to overcome the challenges, fears or obstacle. God kept telling Joshua to be strong and courageous, yet He already told him He will give the land to him, wheresoever the sole of feet touch and He will subdue the land before him. And for to be referred to as a success on this operation, he needs to be equipped with courage which is the only virtue in this instance to be on top of the circumstances. But the condition is that this kind of courage only comes from the word of God and it is learn. The reason, Joshua was instructed to observe carefully, meditate in it and declare it.
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” Joshua 1:8.
The summation of Joshua 1:1-8, is success only come when we have courageously make a move and walk over the obstacle(s). And it is learn. It is a knowledge we need to acquire, in order to navigate over the circumstances.
Satan gives fear but God gives faith. Courage is it that deliver to the saints (believers) the inheritance in the kingdom,
“For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favor unto them.” – Psalm 44:3
Therefore, what is courage, if it is the main virtue to become successful in our endeavors and journey of life?
- Courage is the knowledge acquired from the word of God to attack the challenges of life. Joshua 1:1-9
- Courage is the ability to believe in the love of God, placing faith in Him and keep moving until we achieve the goal regardless of situation. – Psalm 23, Galatians 6:9.
- Courage is the ability to obey God, in doing His will and acting in His word as commanded in the midst of challenges and fears. – Joshua 1:7-9.
- Courage is “holy determination” to fix one’s eyes on the thing above and making right decision in the midst of intimidation. – Daniel 3:15 – 18, Deuteronomy 30:19.
- Courage is that which make us look at the thing we fear at face and dare it. 1 Samuel 17.