"Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man (or woman) is not a person who does not feel afraid, but one who conquers that fear." (Nelson Mandela)
Being courageous is a gift. It’s a gift we receive when we realise how much we are loved and cared for by God. The more we understand the depth of His love for us, the less fear has control over us and the more courageous we become. That knowledge increases as we spend time with Him, pray, read His word, and learn His promises for us.
Courage also increases from being filled with the Holy Spirit and His power and knowing that the one within us is greater than any adversary or threat. Plus, we have a myriad of angels who are ready and waiting to assist us.
“For He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” ( 1 John 4:4)
“Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14)
In contrast, fear limits; it steals and squeezes the life out of us. Instead of running towards life and experiencing new things, fear tries to get us to run and hide, always stepping backwards or sideways instead of forwards.
I grew up being very timid and hesitant. I would step back, enter a room last, and make myself sick at the thought of having to stand up and speak in front of people. However, when I started to understand who I was and what God thought about me, I realised I didn’t have to be afraid because He was with me.
I discovered that He strengthens us when we are weak; He gives us words to speak when we have none; He releases wisdom, boldness and power to walk wherever He asks. Angels go wherever we go, and they always have our back. They’re our helpers, so why should we be afraid?
Today, if you lack courage, don’t be discouraged or afraid. Be of good cheer because God promises that He will be with you; to help, strengthen, and enable you to do whatever you need to do. Where you lack strength, He says He is strong. Where you lack wisdom, He says ask, and He will give it. Where you are timid, He says you are bold.
Courage is a gift that is available to all of us, but it does help us to know who we are and who is on our side to implement it fully.
Have courage because you are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and with God enabling you are capable of more than you can imagine
“Be of good courage, do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”. (Joshua 1:9)
Prayer: Lord, thank you that you promise that when I invite you into my life, you will never leave me. Help me understand your promises, and take the time to know you because courage is found in understanding how much you love and care for me and that there are resources from heaven available to me. I choose to be courageous today. In Jesus name Amen
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