When the Heat Rises

January 14, 2026

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9

Sometimes the hardest part of faith isn’t knowing what’s right — it’s taking the next step when you’re unsure how it will turn out.

Courage isn’t the absence of fear.It’s obedience in the presence of fear.

God didn’t say Joshua would never feel afraid — He commanded him not to let fear control his steps. When God calls us forward, He also supplies the strength to walk it out.

In the kitchen, when the heat is high and the tickets are stacked, you don’t walk out — you lean in. You trust the training. You stay at your station.

Faith works the same way. When life turns up the heat, God doesn’t abandon you — He stands right beside you.

Some of you are facing big decisions, strained relationships, health battles, or spiritual battles. Fear always invites us to shrink back. God says stand firm and step forward.

You don’t have to know every step — you just have to take the next one with Him.

Prayer

Lord, make me strong where I feel weak and brave where I feel afraid. I choose to move forward with You today. I know You are with me. Amen.

Try This Today:

Do one courageous thing today that you’ve been putting off — a hard conversation, a step of faith, or a bold prayer — trusting that God is with you.

Standing with you,

around the table,

Chef Bob