CLING TO GOD and BE ALERT

February 5, 2026 

Joshua 1:9

9Have 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.”

Psalm 23:4

4Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

2 Corinthians 10:5

5We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.

Isaiah 55:8-9

8For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

At first glance, Joshua 1 can sound like a call to muster superhero strength or the bravery of a roaring lion. But when we slow down and look at the original Hebrew behind the words “strong” and “courageous,” a richer and more meaningful picture emerges.

The Hebrew word translated as “strong” carries the idea of fastening upon or holding tightly. Joshua wasn’t being asked to rely on his own power; he was being invited to cling to God, because the strength and endurance required for his calling could only come from the God.

The word translated “courageous” means to be alert or watchful. Implying that Joshua needed vigilance, because distractions and dangers would constantly try to pull his focus away.

In other words, God teaches us that living in His promises doesn’t depend on heroic self-confidence. It requires clinging closely to Him and staying spiritually alert amid the many distractions we face each day. May we discover as Joshua did that living courageously, without fear and worry, is possible because the Lord our God is with us wherever we go. So let's cling to God and be alert!

Let's Pray


God,

You are my protector—in You I have all I need. But when trials come my way it’s easy to forget that You are still in control. Sometimes when I look at the world around me, I grow discouraged, and my thoughts start to spiral. I need You to make me strong and courageous.

So as I step into the plans You have for me, please give me the courage I need to trust in You. Remind me that You are with me, and that You will continue to instruct and guide me.

Show me that You are near.

Encourage me when I feel worn out, and renew my strength when I’m overwhelmed. Give me rest when I need it, and remind me of Your promises. Help me to take every thought captive as I give You my concerns.

Your thoughts are higher than my thoughts, and Your ways are better than mine. You give hope to the hopeless, and strength to the weak. You alone can renew my mind and remind me of my purpose.

Counsel me as I reflect on Your Word, and help me to apply Your truths to my life. Give me the courage I need to do what is right, and help me to pursue You above all else—always.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.