Take Courage预览

“Brave"

I want to pick up and build on where we left off yesterday. We said that anxiety is about control and that we need to give up control of our lives to God. The problem is the unknown. It’s easy to give up control when we know the outcome, when we see the light at the end of the tunnel.

But what about when God is silent, or seems distant, or doesn’t answer our prayers right away (I’m preaching to myself again)? The Psalmist exhorts and challenges us. He tells us to “take courage” and “wait for the LORD.”

Waiting is difficult—yes. We all know that life isn’t easy and life isn’t fair. The truth is life is tough. That’s why I named this devotional Take Courage. It takes tremendous courage to face and then overcome our fears. You must be brave. Let me encourage you to listen to the song “You Make Me Brave” by Bethel Music.

I've listened to the song on repeat. I let it comfort my anxious fears and embolden me. Scripture teaches us that when we wait on the Lord, God then renews our strength. He fills our tanks with courage, endurance, and the perseverance needed to make it through this challenging life.

Remember, I never said life was easy or downplayed the reality of fear. But I have said that, “God is with us and He is mighty to save.” He is our Deliverer. He is our Shield, our Strong Tower. Like the old hymn says, “A mighty fortress is our God.”

So as we end this devotional journey together, remember to trust God and take courage. Billy Graham once said, “Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.”

You never know whom is watching you to take the first step, to come out from under the covers, to take that first step, and then make that bold leap of faith. You just might be very one God uses to help another person deal with their own fears.

William Shedd said, “A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for.” Be brave. Be bold. Live your life to the fullest. God is with you. God is for you. You are not alone.

Read today’s Scripture passages and let them bring you strength, hope, and encouragement.