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Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
- Joshua 1:9
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to move forward despite it. So often when I write, I share personal stories because I believe as we share our testimonies and our lives, it encourages others going through the same struggles as we are. It gives us the hope we need to keep going.
As we look back over seasons of change, we often realize how faithfully God has carried us. What once felt impossible became survivable. What once felt terrifying became familiar. God’s presence sustained us every step of the way. Personally, I’ve experienced this and walked through life’s tragedies more times than I care to count. And yet, as I have shared my grief and suffering, what I’ve learned is that I’m not alone. I’m not the only one with a mother with Alzheimer’s or struggling with constant spine pain and surgeries. But I’ve also grown from the pain.
Reflection allows us to recognize how far we’ve come. Ask: What has this season taught me about God? About myself? About trust? Gratitude grows when we see the ways God has shaped and strengthened us through changes and struggles.
Walking forward with courage does not require certainty—only trust. God walks with us into every new season, offering peace that steadies our hearts and strength that carries us forward.
While change and struggle will continue, so will God’s faithfulness. You do not walk alone.
Prayer: Jesus, as I move forward, give me courage and peace. Help me trust You with what lies ahead and rest in the assurance that You are with me, even when I can’t see the next step. Lord, You do. Thank You for walking with me through every season of change. Amen.
With Love,
Sherry Shepherd
Courage doesn't mean we never feel afraid—it means we choose to trust God even when the path ahead is uncertain. Before moving on with your day, take a few quiet moments to reflect on His promises. As you journal, invite God to replace fear with faith and fill your heart with His peace.
Journal & Reflect
- What situation in my life requires courage right now?
- What fears am I holding that I need to surrender to God?
- How has God faithfully walked with me through past challenges?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Joshua 1:9 mean?
Joshua 1:9 is God's encouragement to Joshua as he prepared to lead Israel into the Promised Land. God reminds him to be strong and courageous because His presence would go with him wherever he went. Today, believers can find confidence in that same truth—God remains with His people through every season.
How can I have courage when I feel afraid?
Biblical courage doesn't require the absence of fear. It grows as we trust God's promises, spend time in prayer, remember His past faithfulness, and take one faithful step at a time.
Why should I journal after reading Scripture?
Journaling helps us process God's Word, remember His promises, pray intentionally, and look back on the ways He has faithfully answered prayers and strengthened our faith.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for reminding me that I never walk alone. When fear tries to overwhelm me, help me remember that Your presence goes before me and remains beside me. Give me courage to trust You with each new step and fill my heart with the peace that only You can provide. Help me live boldly, knowing You are faithful in every season.
In Jesus' name,
Amen
Message from Kara
There are moments in every life when taking the next step feels overwhelming. I've experienced seasons where I wished God would reveal the entire path before asking me to move forward. Instead, He's often given just enough light for the next faithful step.
Joshua 1:9 reminds me that courage doesn't come from knowing what tomorrow holds—it comes from knowing who walks with us today.
My prayer is that whenever fear tries to steal your peace, you'll remember that God's presence never leaves you. He is already ahead of you, preparing the way, strengthening your heart, and reminding you that you are never alone.
Walk confidently today. He's with you every step of the way.
With love ,
Kara 🤍
Applying this to your Daily Routine
Take time to reflect, pray, and process what God is teaching you through every season. Our Personalized Prayer Journal was designed to help you grow deeper in faith—one day at a time–turning intention into habit. Many people use journals to revisit verses like these and reflect throughout the week.
👉 Explore Personalized Scripture Products at www.papersunday.com
Today's devotional pairs beautifully with the Perfectly Imperfect Personalized Scripture Journal
If you’re still feeling overwhelmed, these devotionals may help you find peace:
Daily Devotional • 1 John 4:18 • Perfect Love Casts Out Fear
