Be Strong & Courageous

Walking with God is not easy. Being called to minister is even harder.

As believers in Christ, we are called to lead people toward our Father in heaven. And as service members and military families, we are placed in one of the most unique mission fields on earth. The U.S. military is one of the largest and most diverse organizations in the world.

The mission is big… but our commission is even greater.

“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭18‬-‭20‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The future may be unknown, but our mission has never changed. 

Joshua, one of God’s warriors, was given a similar charge. Born into slavery in Egypt, he rose to become one of Israel’s greatest leaders. As he stepped into uncertainty, God gave him clear instruction:

“Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 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 ‭1‬:‭6‬-‭9 ‭NIV‬‬

Through Joshua’s calling, we learn how to lead in uncertain times. And like him, you have been commissioned to go and share the good news of Jesus Christ. 

How do we execute our mission? 

Obey the Word of God. 

Do not turn to the right or to the left like shifting sand. 

Study scripture with all your heart and let it flow freely through your lips. 

God has placed you where you are for a purpose and for a season. Don’t waste the mission field in front of you.

Reflect

1. Do you regularly study God’s Word? Set aside a specific time each day to read and reflect on Scripture.

2. Are you pursuing God’s heart—or only turning to Him when it’s convenient? Be honest. What distractions or sins do you need to surrender?

3. Does the world know where you stand with God? Be intentional in how you live and speak. The world doesn’t need more noise—it needs faithful witnesses.

God reminded Joshua—and Jesus reminded His disciples— they were never alone. The same is true for you.

God has already given you everything you need to walk faithfully. The question is: will you act?

Today, as you put on the uniform, remember who you are in Christ. Stay focused on the mission. Lead others according to what is right in God’s eyes—not your own.

Prayer

Lord, give strength and courage. Help us trust You in every mission, every challenge, and every unknown. Let our lives point others to You. Amen.