PERHAPS there is no verse in the Pentateuch more often quoted or more helpful to many, than the ninth verse of the first chapter of Joshua: "Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." Reading this verse in connection with the New Testament use of the word Immanuel, "God with us," and the Christian Science revelation that God — "the all knowing, all-seeing, all-acting, all wise, all-loving, and eternal" (Science and Health, p. 587) — is ever present, we see why Christian Scientists may reasonably and continually "be strong and of a good courage." Joshua was about to lead the children of Israel into the promised land. There were enemies to vanquish, obstacles to overcome, and fears to destroy, but he knew that a steadfast remembrance that divine Love was ever about him, would indeed enable him to "fear not, nor be dismayed."
What was true of Joshua and the children of Israel, is strikingly true of the Christian Scientist. The promised land he is to win for himself and others is the kingdom of heaven within individual consciousness and its permanent realization by all. He knows that in Truth he has no enemies, for he is taught that good is the only reality. Manifesting the activity of divine Mind and knowing that there is no other Mind, he understands why he need not fear. Affirming that "with God all things are possible," he crosses the Jordan of false doubts and fears. The promised land lies spread before him, for he realizes that "one on God's side is a majority" and that heaven is here and now for each child of God who claims with confidence and true faith to be that "one." Having much for which to be grateful, and perpetually giving thanks therefor, obstacles fade away. To him every problem spells victory, because he has constant proofs of the availability of divine Love.
Every one who has begun to study "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" is a pioneer. It is as true of him as it was of Joshua, that he is to help others into the promised land of peace and health. However humble his place, there are others looking to him. His moral courage, his strength in Truth, heartens others, and fills them with confidence that God has blessings awaiting them also. God is ever speaking to such a one, even as He did to Joshua, and to go forward is the one thing needful. It is well, too, for those to whom sometimes the battle seems prolonged, to remember that it is under the strain of some long-continued trial that the real test comes, for in a sudden crisis, courage rises with the occasion. Mrs. Eddy lovingly encourages all such when she says (Science and Health, p. 22): "If your endeavors are beset by fearful odds, and you receive no present reward, go not back to error, nor become a sluggard in the race. When the smoke of battle clears away, you will discern the good you have done, and receive according to your deserving."
