It takes confidence to be courageous, for confidence encompasses more than intelligence, social skills or physical strength. When Joshua succeeded Moses as leader of the Hebrew people, he inherited a task that would require patience and wisdom far beyond what he could humanly produce.
God commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous, to obey all of the commandments he gave to Moses. God promised to constantly be with him, which became Joshua’s source of confidence and courage for completing the task God gave him. Unlike Joshua, Samson's confidence derived from his own physical strength.
Samson did not necessarily display courage when facing an enemy. It was more like reckless abandonment. Courage analyzes a situation whereas reckless abandonment discounts caution. Listen to St. Paul’s formula for coping with life’s challenges and uncertainty. "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be people of courage; be strong. Do everything in love." Happy Thanksgiving week to you.
Remember that I have commanded you to be determined and
confident! Do not be afraid or discouraged, for I the Lord your God, am with
you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9 Good News Bible
O, give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his lovingkindness
is everlasting.
~1 Chronicles 16:34 New American Standard Bible
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