"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (joshua 1:9) Something I hadn't noticed before about this verse is the powerful choice of the word "commanded." I usually just skip over the first sentence and go right to the part about being strong and courageous, not being terrified or discouraged, etc. But what I failed to realize until now is that...this is not just a warm-fuzzy message of encouragement. It isn't even a fiery pep talk. It's a command...i.e. NOT optional. This radically changes the implications of the verse, as well as my reflection and response to it. These are not just heart-felt words spoken by a loving Father before I leave the comfort of home to go out on an unpredictable journey. You see, although He certainly is that loving Father of comfort to me, He goes way beyond that.  These are words spoken by the omnipotent Chief-in-Command. He's giving His orders. "Listen carefully. These are your orders, and they are NOT optional. You must be strong and courageous. Be bold! No matter what happens, do not be frightened or terrified, and do not under ANY circumstances become discouraged. Press on regardless.  This is what we've been training for. Remember what I've taught you and don't back down or waver.  Do you understand Me, soldier?"  "Sir, yes, Sir!"  But then......He doesn't just leave it at that and let me go off and give my feeble attempts at somehow taking a stab at obeying this non-optional command He has just given me. He suddenly moves from His authoritative position in front of me giving orders...and He takes His place standing directly beside me. He puts his arm around my shoulders, looks me in the eyes, and says..."I'm going to be with you through this wherever you go. No matter where this journey takes you, or what terrors you may encounter...I'm here. Period."