I Am Brave

God Loves Me  ·  Joshua 1:9; Philippians 4:13

God's courage lives in me.

What's something brave? Maybe going to a new place, or trying something hard, or standing up for someone? Bravery doesn't mean not feeling scared. Today we hear what real bravery is.

Joshua had a very hard job. He had to lead millions of people into a new land. He was probably very nervous.

God spoke to him:

'Be strong and courageous! Don't be afraid! Don't be discouraged! The Lord your God is with you wherever you go.'

Be strong. Be courageous. Don't be afraid.

Three times in one breath. God says it three times because it is that important.

But notice what God doesn't say. He doesn't say 'Joshua, you're so tough, you don't need any help.'

He says: 'The Lord your God is with you.'

The bravery comes from knowing God is with you. That's where the courage lives. Not in being naturally fearless, but in knowing you are never alone.

Paul said the same thing later: 'I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.'

Can you stand up really tall? Chin up. Shoulders back. That's a brave posture. Now say with me: God is with me.

That is the most courageous thing in the world.

Prayer

Let's pray. Repeat after me:
Dear God,
Help me to be brave.
Remind me that you are with me
wherever I go.
We love you!
Amen.

Listen to this devotional with audio narration and illustrations in the Seedling: Bible Stories app — short devotionals for Christian families with children ages 2–5.