Courage to Follow
Walking Forward in Courage
Having journeyed some way along the Lenten road, it becomes clear that the path of discipleship is rarely easy. It is marked by uncertainty, sacrifice, and moments when the way ahead feels daunting. Yet into this reality comes God’s steady and reassuring word to Joshua:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
Courage, as Scripture understands it, is not the absence of fear but the choice to move forward despite it. Joshua stood on the edge of the Promised Land, carrying the weight of leadership after Moses—one of Israel’s greatest figures. The future was unknown, the responsibility immense, and the risks real. Fear could easily have immobilised him. Instead, God did not promise an easy journey, but a faithful presence. Strength and courage would flow from knowing that God was going with him.
So it is for us. Lent invites honest reflection, and often that includes facing our own fears. We may be stepping into new responsibilities, navigating personal struggles, or trying to live out our faith with integrity in a challenging world. God does not remove every obstacle from our path, but promises never to abandon us as we walk it.
Illustration
For forty years, Thomas walked the narrow cliff path to tend the lighthouse. In fair weather it was easy, but storms turned it into a treacherous journey—wind howling, rain blinding, waves crashing below.
One winter night, the lamp died. A neighbour shouted, "Wait! The storm's too strong!"
Thomas replied, "If I don't go forward now, ships will be lost. I can't see ahead, but I trust the path beneath my feet."
He took one step, then another—focused on what was just in front, feeling for familiar grooves in the rock. Though fear tugged at him, he kept moving forward.
He relit the lamp, guiding a ship to safety. On his way back, he knew: courage isn’t no fear—it’s stepping forward anyway, trusting the way we’ve been prepared to walk.
Challenge
As you continue this Lenten journey, take time to name one fear that is holding you back. Bring it honestly before God. Then ask: What is one small, courageous step I can take this week, trusting that God goes with me? Courage often begins with a single step of obedience.
Prayer
Faithful God,
you know the fears we carry
and the challenges that lie before us.
When we feel weak or overwhelmed,
remind us of your constant presence.
Give us strength to keep walking,
courage to trust you in the unknown,
and faith to believe that you go with us
wherever the road may lead.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
