Long ago, Moses died. Now Joshua had to lead all the people into a new land. That was a big job, and Joshua was nervous. So God spoke to him plainly: "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
Notice why Joshua could be brave. Not because he was the biggest or the cleverest. God gave him a reason: I will be with you. Wherever you go, God is already there.
Courage is not a loud feeling. It is a small step taken with God beside you. Lucas's hand still shook a little. He lifted it anyway.
You can do that today too. Before you raise your hand, or climb on the bike, or jump in, say quietly, "God is with me." Then do the one small brave thing.
🦁Being Brave
God Goes With You Everywhere
One small brave thing, and a big God right beside you
October 21, 20262 min readNIV
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.
— Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Joshua assumes command
Today's Story
✍️Fictitious Story
Miss Tan asked the class a question. "Who can tell us what the caterpillar turned into?"
Lucas Yeo knew the answer. He had watched the caterpillar all week. But his hand stayed down on the table. His tummy felt tight.
He whispered very softly, "God is with me." Then he lifted his hand.
Miss Tan smiled. "Lucas?"
His voice came out small and shaky. "It turned into a butterfly." Some children clapped. Lucas's ears went hot, but he sat up straighter in his chair.
That evening he stood at the kitchen counter and told Grandpa Arthur about it. He clicked on his little clip-on torch, the one Grandpa had given him, and held it up like a tiny lamp. Grandpa Arthur tapped his watch buttons and said, "That was a brave hand."
Reflection
Think About It
• What is one small brave thing you could do today? • When you feel nervous, what could you say to God before you start?
Prayer
You are the God who goes with me. You said be strong and courageous. You said You would never leave me. I believe that today. You are with me in the classroom and at the pool. So I will lift my hand and take my small brave step. Amen.
Live It Out
Try one small brave thing today and say "God is with me" first.