One of the most well-known biblical instructions about courage comes from Joshua 1:9:

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

These words were spoken to Joshua at a significant turning point.

Moses—the leader who had guided Israel—was gone.

Joshua had been appointed to lead the people into the Promised Land.

This wasn't a small assignment.

Joshua had to lead people, face opposition, make difficult decisions, and step into territory he had never personally led them through before.

And God didn't tell him:

"Joshua, don't worry. Everything will be easy."

He didn't promise that there would be no battles.

He didn't tell Joshua that everyone would agree with him.

He didn't say there would be no obstacles.

Instead, God repeatedly told him:

Be strong.

Be courageous.

Do not be afraid.

Why?

Because courage would be necessary for the assignment ahead.

But notice something even more important.

God didn't simply tell Joshua to be brave.

He gave him a reason:

"For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

That's the foundation of biblical courage.