Crossing Over

Scripture: Joshua 1:1-19

Joshua 1:9 NLT

This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

References:

Here are Bible references about being strong and courageous, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. I’ve grouped them for easy reading.

📖 Key Verses on Strength & Courage

Joshua 1:9 – “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 – “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread…”

Psalm 27:14 – “Be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord.”

Psalm 31:24 – “Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!”

Psalm 138:3 – “On the day I called, you answered me; my strength of soul you increased.”

🛡️ Strength in Difficult Times

Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you… I will strengthen you.”

Isaiah 40:31 – “They who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength…”

2 Chronicles 15:7 – “But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak.”

Nehemiah 8:10 – “Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

✝️ New Testament Encouragement

1 Corinthians 16:13 – “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.”

Ephesians 6:10 – “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.”

2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power…”

Hebrews 13:6 – “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear.”

🙏 Courage Rooted in Faith

Psalm 56:3–4 – “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”

Proverbs 28:1 – “The righteous are bold as a lion.”

John 16:33 – “Take heart; I have overcome the world.”

If you’d like, I can also:

Organize these by theme (fear, leadership, trials)

Provide full verse text

Create a printable or shareable list

Suggest verses for a specific situation (stress, leadership, illness, decision-making)

Just let me know 😊

Background Research:

The Bible Knowledge Commentary A. The Commissioning of Joshua (Chap. 1)

A. The commissioning of Joshua (chap. 1)

1. JOSHUA’S LISTENING TO THE LORD (1:1–9)

1:1. The words, After the death of Moses, link this book with Deuteronomy (cf.

Theme:

be strong and courageous

Object Lesson:

Songs/ video

Outline:

Courageous Steps: God is With Us!

Bible Passage: Joshua 1:1-19, Matthew 28:20, Joshua 1:9

Summary: These passages highlight God's command to be strong and courageous, His reassurance of His presence, and His promises to support His people as they step into their destinies.

Application:

encourages children to face challenges with confidence, knowing that God is with them in every situation.

rely on God's words to be strong and brave.

How this passage could point to Christ:

Christ fulfills the promise of God's presence in our lives.

God assured Joshua of His presence,

Jesus promises to be with us always, reminding us that we can depend on Him no matter where we are or what we face.

Big Idea: With God by our side, we can face challenges with courage and confidence, knowing He will never leave us alone.

1. God's Presence Promised

Joshua 1:1-9

You could help the children understand how God’s promise to Joshua is also a promise to them. God told Joshua to be strong and courageous because He would always be with him and never forsake him. Emphasize to the children that no matter what they face—whether it's a new school or making new friends—God is always by their side. Perhaps, illustrate this point with a simple story or example they can relate to, showing them how courage is trusting God’s presence over our fears.

2. Preparation for Courage

Joshua 1:10-19

Perhaps, use this passage to show children the importance of preparation in facing challenges courageously. Joshua didn't just rely on God's promise; he prepared the people for crossing the Jordan. Encourage children to prepare themselves for their daily challenges by praying, learning, and trusting God. Use an analogy that they can understand, like how preparing for a test helps alleviate fear. Stress that trusting God's plan and participating actively are both parts of stepping forward with courage.

3. Christ's Constant Company

Matthew 28:20 NLT

Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Maybe explain to children how Jesus echoes God’s promise of presence to His disciples, reminding them He will be with them always. Highlight that Jesus is with them in every part of their lives—at school, at home, or during play. Reassure them that Jesus’ presence is as true today as it was for the disciples. This reminder can empower them to face their fears knowing they are never alone. Bring this point home with a simple activity, like writing down things they fear and praying over them.

Sermon