Week 3 Overview
Building in The Dark Series Week 3: Joshua 1:9 – Courage for the Journey
Theme: Be strong and courageous; God is with you.
Presented by Mend The Vow Ministries
Introduction: The Call to Courage in Unseen Places
Building in the dark is a journey every believer faces—whether in ministry, business, or personal growth. It’s about taking bold steps when the outcome is unclear, trusting God’s presence even when the path is shadowed by uncertainty. In Week 3 of our “Building in The Dark” series, we turn to Joshua 1:9, a verse that pulses with God’s command and promise:
“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.”
This week, Mend The Vow Ministries invites you to explore what it means to build with courage, knowing that God’s presence is the foundation beneath every step.
The Context: Joshua’s Moment of Transition
Joshua’s story begins at a crossroads. Moses, the great leader of Israel, has died. The daunting task of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land now rests on Joshua’s shoulders. The journey ahead is filled with unknowns—formidable enemies, fortified cities, and the weight of leading a people who have wandered for decades.
God’s command to Joshua is not just a pep talk; it’s a divine imperative rooted in His faithfulness. Joshua is told to be strong and courageous—not because the challenges are small, but because God’s presence is assured.
Courage for the Journey: Lessons from Joshua 1:9
1. Courage Is a Command, Not a Suggestion
God doesn’t merely encourage Joshua; He commands him to be strong and courageous. This is a call to action, not just a feeling. For those building in the dark—whether launching a new ministry, starting a business, or mending relationships—courage is a non-negotiable. It’s the willingness to move forward when fear and doubt whisper otherwise.
2. God’s Presence Is the Game-Changer
The promise in Joshua 1:9 is clear: “the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” The assurance of God’s presence transforms the journey. It means you’re never building alone. Mend The Vow Ministries emphasizes this truth in every aspect of our work—coaching, mentorship, and community support are all anchored in the belief that God walks with us, even in the darkest seasons.
3. Courage Doesn’t Deny Fear—It Overcomes It
Joshua’s courage wasn’t the absence of fear; it was the decision to act despite it. In your journey, you may face setbacks, criticism, or the temptation to give up. Courage is choosing faith over fear, action over paralysis, and hope over despair.
4. Community Strengthens Courage
Joshua didn’t lead alone. He was surrounded by leaders, warriors, and a community moving toward a common goal. Mend The Vow Ministries fosters this sense of community through programs like Women Who Mend and weekly online gatherings, creating spaces where courage is nurtured and sustained together.
Practical Strategies for Courageous Building
•Mindset Reset: Challenge limiting beliefs with God’s promises. The 21-Day Mindset Reset Program is designed to help you renew your mind and embrace courage as a daily practice.
•Accountability Partners: Invite others into your journey for encouragement, prayer, and honest feedback. Community is a powerful antidote to isolation and discouragement.
•Scripture Meditation: Anchor your heart in verses like Joshua 1:9. Speak them over your life, especially when fear tries to take root.
•Celebrate Small Wins: Every step of obedience is a victory. Acknowledge progress, no matter how incremental.
Reflection Questions
•Where is God calling you to exercise courage in this season?
•What fears or doubts are you facing as you build in the dark?
•Who can walk alongside you to encourage and strengthen your resolve?
Conclusion: God’s Presence Makes All the Difference
Building in the dark is not about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the One who does. Joshua’s journey reminds us that courage is possible because God goes with us. Mend The Vow Ministries stands with you, offering biblical grounding, practical tools, and a supportive community as you step boldly into your calling.
“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
Let this promise fuel your journey. Even in the dark, you are never alone.
Presented by Mend The Vow Ministries – Empowering you to build with faith, endurance, and courage.
From Mend The Vow Ministries
The Divine Command for Every Season
“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
This powerful verse stands as a beacon for anyone facing uncertainty, transition, or overwhelming responsibility. It was first spoken to Joshua, a leader stepping into Moses’ shoes, but its truth resounds for every believer today: strength and courage are not optional—they are God’s command, anchored in the unshakeable promise of His presence.
Joshua’s Challenge: A Model for Our Own
Joshua’s assignment was daunting. He was to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, a task filled with obstacles—formidable enemies, an untested nation, and the looming shadow of his predecessor’s legacy. God’s command to Joshua was not a suggestion to muster up inner bravery, but a call to trust in divine partnership. Joshua’s courage was to be rooted not in his abilities, but in the assurance that God Himself would go with him every step of the way.
What Does It Mean to Be Strong and Courageous?
•Strength and Courage Begin with Trust:
True strength is not found in self-reliance, but in relying on God as the ultimate source of power and wisdom. Joshua didn’t have all the answers, but he was called to move forward in faith, trusting that God would provide what was needed at every turn.
•Courage Is Not the Absence of Fear:
God’s command acknowledges that fear and discouragement are real. Yet, courage is the choice to act in spite of fear, knowing that God’s presence transforms every challenge into an opportunity for growth and testimony.
•Daily Acts of Faith:
Being strong and courageous is often lived out in small, daily decisions—choosing faith over fear, obedience over convenience, and hope over despair.
How Do We Live Out This Command Today?
1. Meditate on God’s Word:
Joshua was instructed to meditate on God’s teachings day and night. Immersing ourselves in Scripture fortifies our hearts and minds, giving us the perspective and strength to face whatever comes.
2. Act on God’s Promises:
Courage grows as we step out in obedience. Each act of faith—no matter how small—builds spiritual muscle and deepens our trust in God’s faithfulness.
3. Remember You Are Not Alone:
God’s greatest promise is His presence. Whatever the journey, whatever the darkness, He is with you. This assurance is the foundation for unwavering courage.
A Word from Mend The Vow Ministries
At Mend The Vow Ministries, we believe that God’s call to be strong and courageous is for everyone—no matter your background, your struggles, or your past. Like Joshua, you may face moments when the future feels overwhelming. But God’s promise stands: He is with you, guiding, empowering, and sustaining you.
Let Joshua 1:9 be your anthem in seasons of uncertainty. Press into God’s presence, draw courage from His Word, and remember—your strength is not your own. God is with you, and with Him, you can face anything.
“Courage isn’t the absence of fear. It’s the triumph over it. When shadows loom and doubt whispers deceit, remember His promise. With God at your side, mountains crumble and seas part. You’re not alone in this journey.”
Be strong. Be courageous. God is with you—now and always.
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