I RECALL THE FIRST TIME I watched the children's classic movie The Wizard of Oz. I was spellbound by the music and the enchanting way in which the simple themes of family, valuing home, and celebrating individual differences were on display. But perhaps the most hilarious character of all was the lion—the bumbling, wimp of a cat, who cowered in fear at the smallest threat. What he needed was courage!
I love it. Who doesn't, by the way? We all need courage to face another difficult conversation with our employer. To step into a new ministry with a genuine level of confidence. To ask someone special to the dance. To tell the family your unsettling news about the future.
Thankfully, God has not left us to ourselves. In fact, at critical junctures in our lives, He offers the assurance of His presence to bolster courage. Remember Joshua, having just stepped into the oversized sandals of the great Moses—leader of Israel? What did he need most? You got it: courage. Knowing that, God stepped in to bolster Joshua's confidence.
Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. Be strong and very courageous. . . . This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord God is with you wherever you go.
David had it when he slung his sling (1 Samuel 17). Daniel felt it when he laughed at the lions (Daniel 6). Moses showed it when he faced Pharaoh (Exodus 5-10). And Jesus had it when He carried our sorrows. You can know its strengthening power too.
Do you need a fresh infusion of divine courage? Facing an uncertain future? Wondering how everything will work out? Feeling inadequate for the task ahead? Don't faint. Don't despair. The Lord promises His presence and power if you trust Him. Take courage!
Devotional content taken from Good Morning, Lord . . . Can We Talk? by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2018. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, a division of Tyndale House Ministries. All rights reserved. The full devotional can be purchased at tyndale.com.
Used with permission. All rights reserved.
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