that we, being rescued from

When folks think of Joshua, they usually think of 24:15 as some summary of his character, this man of faith declaring to all his clear choice. An earlier example would be his and Caleb's principled stand after spying. And no doubt, the record of his works deserved their own book in The Book. So faithful, yes.

Josh1 might give you another aspect of his character that is little spoken of: fear. When the Word repeats something, it's usually because the person hearing it (or reading it) need it reinforced. And here in Josh1, the Lord tells Josh 3 TIMES to be strong and courageous. And if he needed that again, the people in responding to Josh's command say the same thing to him.

Even those with strength and courage in spades will find that one moment where more is needed. And it is at that point that the Lord's promise to never leave nor forsake you makes so much sense -- which is why that promise is found in Josh1 right before the first be strong. At some point, your reserve of talent, of skill, of strength, of confidence, of ability all run out. And the Lord says at that moment, it doesn't matter whether you succeed or fail. I'll take care of that. What you need to know is that even if you do fall, it may be a long fall, but trust me. My hand? Still right there catching.