Maundy Thursday, April 17 Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

WE ARE NEVER ALONE

As a working mom and wife, I often feel like life is a balancing act. Between work, family and everything else, there are moments when fear and discouragement creep in. It can feel overwhelming to juggle so much, while also trying to stay faithful to God`s calling. In those moments, Joshua 1:9 serves as a powerful reminder that I am never alone and that God`s command to be strong and courageous applies to every part of my life.

In this verse, God speaks directly to Joshua, who was stepping into a huge leadership role after Moses` death. He was tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land — a land filled with unknown challenges and battles. Imagine the weight of that responsibility! Yet God didn`t just give Joshua a mission. He gave Joshua a promise: “The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

That same promise is true for us today. Whether we`re navigating the complexities of parenting, facing challenges at work, or dealing with personal struggles, God`s presence is constant. He doesn`t just call us to be strong and courageous — he equips us with his presence to make it possible.

As a mom, I`ve seen this lesson play out in my family. When my kids face new challenges — whether it`s a tough test, making new friends, or trying something outside their comfort zone — I remind them of this promise. I want them to know that courage isn`t about being fearless but about leaning on God when fear arises. It`s a lesson I`m learning alongside them every day.

Emmy, who isn`t quite ready to write her own devotion yet, said an example of this for her was overcoming her fear of staying home alone (for short periods of time). She said that this year she has realized that she can be brave enough to stay home by herself — but that doesn`t mean she isn`t scared. It just means that she is willing to do it anyway.

God`s command to be strong and courageous is both an invitation and a promise. He invites us to step out in faith, knowing that we don`t have to rely on our own strength (just like Emmy). His promise is that he will never leave us or forsake us. This truth gives us the confidence to face whatever lies ahead, whether it`s a difficult conversation, a big decision or an unexpected challenge.

So, if fear or discouragement is weighing you down today, take heart in God`s promise. You are not alone. He is with you, strengthening and guiding you every step of the way.

Lord, thank you for the promise that you are always with us. Help us to be strong and courageous, even when we feel afraid or uncertain. Remind us of your constant presence and guide us as we trust in your plans for our lives. Amen

Dulcinea Rakestraw

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