Bible Reading: Joshua 1; 3–4

Be Strong and Courageous

After many years of traveling through the wilderness, it was time for the Israelites to enter the land God had promised them.

Moses had died, and Joshua became the new leader. Joshua loved God and wanted to help the people walk in God’s ways.

Joshua felt the weight of such a big responsibility.

God spoke to Joshua and said,

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, for I am with you wherever you go.”

Those words gave Joshua hope.

The people came to the Jordan River. It was deep and rushing with water.

God told the priests to carry the Ark of the Covenant and step into the river first. As soon as they did, the waters stopped flowing, and the people crossed safely on dry ground.

When everyone had crossed, God told Joshua to choose twelve people, one from each tribe of Israel, to carry twelve stones from the riverbed.

They stacked the stones together as a memorial.

“Whenever your children ask about these stones,” Joshua said, “tell them how God helped us cross the river.”

The stones became a reminder that God had been faithful in the past and would continue to be faithful in the future.

Joshua led with courage, not because he was never afraid, but because he trusted that God was always with him.

What Can We Learn?

Courage does not mean we never feel afraid. Courage means doing what is right while trusting that God is with us. Remembering God’s faithfulness can give us strength for today’s challenges.

Love Like Francis and Clare

Make a “memory stone” by drawing or writing about a time when God, a friend, or your family helped you through something difficult. Thank God for that gift.

Prayer

Dear God,

Thank You for being with us wherever we go. Help us to be strong and courageous, to trust You, and to remember Your faithfulness every day.

Amen.

Remember This Verse

“Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9