Be Strong and Courageous

Fear has always been a struggle of mine.  I (Christa) have dealt with anxiety my whole life, and while some of this is helped with medical resources, there's still fear that will never leave.  So, it shouldn't be a surprise that one of my favorite Bible verses comes from Joshua 1:9. 

"Have I not commanded you, be strong and courageous....For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

I learned these words as a child, and they've been forever in my heart.   What I love is the two parts to this verse.  First is a command...it takes action on my part.  Be strong and courageous.  Another favorite quote of mine reminds me that, "Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow."   So even if I don't FEEL brave or courageous...real bravery is going on, even when you want to quit.  The command from Joshua chapter 1 is a reminder....KEEP GOING.  DON'T QUIT.

My favorite commands are the commands with a promise, because there's no way I could do this thing called life on my own. "For the Lord you God is with you wherever you go."  I'm never alone...even in the darkest shadows, the valley of death, I can keep going, because I'm not alone.   This command and truth are a constant solace to my fearful soul, and so we designed this tee as a reminder.  Be strong.  Be courageous.  Keep Going. You're not alone.