This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9
My favorite childhood movie hands down is The Wizard of Oz where Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion band together on the Yellow Brick Road to find the wizard in pursuit of their hearts’ desires. The Lion, though big-hearted and deeply loyal, plans to ask the wizard for courage, believing that his fears and anxious nature indicate weakness. As the movie unfolds, however, the Lion repeatedly faces danger to protect his friends and eventually learns that courage is something he already possesses.
Courage, it turns out, is not the absence of fear but the ability to face difficulties in spite of it. Sure, this might look like the guy who rushes into a burning building to save a child. But it might also be the cancer patient who chooses joy each and every day. Or the employee who refuses to compromise the company’s bookkeeping practices despite the boss’ request. Courage could even look like you as you trust in God and remain faithful in times of great uncertainty.
Courage comes from our confidence in God and His promise to be with us wherever we go. Our fears may not vanish, but with God’s help we can have conviction to act with courage in the presence of whatever we face.
CLOSING PRAYER
Father in heaven, fill us with Your strength to face our challenges with courage, acting rightly and choosing faith over fear as You walk by our side each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.