What does it mean to be “courageous”? During 2018 our Elders are asking us to exhibit courage.

Two Hebrew words stand out to describe courage. Ḥāzaq and ’āmaṣ are very similar in meaning – to show ourselves as strong or to become strong. The other words show the source of our courage. Our heart and spirit can lose or gain courage (Dan.2:11). Also, if we were to act quickly and remain alert we tend to be more courageous.

Moses, their leader, has just died. Joshua must take over and fill huge shoes. What do you think God’s counsel was?

Joshua 1:6–9 (ESV) — 6 Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them. 7 Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

First, “be strong and courageous” is mentioned three times and throughout the message. Every step of the way, we will need to remember this. I love the middle admonition the most: ONLY BE STRONG AND VERY COURAGEOUS.  To the Jewish reader God was using the word courage twice (ḥāzaq then ’āmaṣ). Together with courage the goal is given – inherit the land. God has promised us that “the fields are white unto harvest”. Our goal is inheriting spiritual land – that is, the hearts of lost mankind.

Second, “being careful to do according to all the law … do not turn from it … not depart from your mouth … meditate on it …careful to do according to all that is written in it”. Together with courage, if we keep His Word, we will “have good success” in whatever direction we are led.

Thirdly, “the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”.

So, the bottom line is: If we are strong and very courageous we will expand the Kingdom because we will have good success and because God is with us.

We have already launched our 2018 “Be Courageous” campaign. Even though we have just begun, we already have 22 teachers teaching 83 souls in 12 countries. Including our prayer warriors and those who will help supply leads, we have 39 courageous volunteers. We are hoping that by December 2018 our main concentration of classes will be around our church building.

Friend, can you find it within yourself to be in the courageous soul-winning business. Remember, Jesus has no plan B.