Sometimes we need to be reminded.

 This morning we start worship encouraged by:

Joshua 1:9

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.”

Sometimes we need to be reminded.

Possibly the most dreaded scolding from a parent is "Didn't I tell you . . .?"

The command here is to be strong (ḥāzaq).  Funny thing about strength is that it can, generally speaking, be improved.  It is not like other physical characteristics that cannot be changed.

We are also commanded to be courageous ('āmēṣ).   This is a different kind of strength and yes, it too can be improved.  But unlike physical strength, which may take weeks of training to improve, courage can be improved instantaneously.  Courage is a decision.

We are not to be frightened (ʿāraṣ).  Literally trembling.

We are not to be dismayed (ḥāṯaṯ).  Literally laying down mentally.

Now we are given one reason . . . God.  When we are reminded that God is present, everywhere, at all times, in every situation, in the past and in the future, then it is easier to make the decision to be courageous and to daily take up our training.