The Lord spoke four times in the first chapter of Joshua and said, “Be strong and of a good courage.” (Joshua 1:6, 7, 9, 18) Four times God commands Joshua to “be strong.”
Why would God repeat this command verbatim to Joshua?
First of all, in spiritual warfare, “we must be strong to win.” In the arena of battle, the strongest always wins. That’s why God has offered to clothe us in His power and strength. We receive His power and strength in the place of prayer.
Prayer is the source of strength, power and courage for the believer. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:10-12)
Verse ten begins with a command to “be strong.” Please read this next sentence very carefully. Weak, powerless Christians do not please God.
I know that is a startling statement but, dear saints, it is a true one.
A weak, powerless Christian is one who not only embarrasses God, but gives Satan a license to devour and destroy everything in his life.
Saint, God has called you to victory. And to ensure that you get it, He has given you His Spirit and His strength.
If your strength is weak, I’ve got news for you — God wants to give you His strength and power.
