Tag: courage

Hello There

His majestic artistry

It’s been almost three weeks. Been dealing with some health issues. Here I am, though. Ready to encourage and inspire. Pray that all is well with each of you. By well, I mean that you are dealing with whatever challenges you have. “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”. This excerpt from the Serenity Prayer (most popular and to me, straight to the point) speaks to everyone of us as we deal with life. I believe that when we accept what we cannot change_what’s not in our ability to change_the stance puts us in a position of power. We can move on to the things we can. From that point, we are able to walk forward in spite of fear_courage_ and the most important part is the wisdom to know the difference. This comes from God. We need to ask and keep asking for discernment. Each day may bring new challenges. However, God is with us every day. He promised to never leave us nor forsake us. He said in His word to “Call to Me and I will answer you, and tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know and understand and cannot distinguish.” Jeremiah 33:3 (NASB)

Be blessed in the Lord!

Acceptance

Serenity

“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” The Serenity Prayer

This part of the Serenity Prayer speaks directly to me. Accepting what I cannot change puts me in a place to see what I can change. We cannot change others. We inspire them to change themselves (allowing the transformative power of God to move) as we model what that looks like. It is a part of growth that is necessary because it clears our perspective and allows us to move forward. I truly believe that transformative change comes from God because it begins with humility.

1 Peter 5:6 – “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you,”

God’s Hand

Surrendering to God that He is the omnipotent power is the beginning; accepting that we cannot change anyone but ourselves. Yet, we need His mercy and grace even for that part.

Once you have a clear perspective, you can then ask Him for the courage or power to change the things you can. What does that look like in your life? We all have areas in which we move for change. I only know what that looks like in my life. You know what that looks like in yours. God knows what that looks like for everyone. The Word of God tells us do not fear but be of good courage. He was clear in speaking to Joshua, telling him not to fear but be of good courage.

Joshua 1:9 – “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.”

The Word tells us that He has given us a spirit of love, power, and a sound mind. We can move for change because God is faithful to His Word.

Last, but certainly not least, we need to move in wisdom. God’s Word tells us that:

James 1:5 – “If any man lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

True wisdom comes from God. He is the all-powerful, all-knowing, present everywhere God. This prayer speaks truly to who God is on this journey. I would say that speaking this prayer out loud everyday moves us out of the way for Him to do what only He can do. Change us for His glory.

He died for me.

What Does Courage Mean to You?

Courage means “the ability to disregard fear.” I got this definition from the Reader’s Digest Oxford Complete Wordfinder published in 1996. Twenty-six years ago. Still holds true today.

His Presence is always with us.

However, what does God say about courage.

Genesis 46:3-4 – 3) I am God, the God of your father,” the voice said. “Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make your family into a great nation. 4) I will go with you down to Egypt, and I will bring you back again. You will die in Egypt, but Joseph will be with you to close your eyes.”

God was speaking to Jacob. He was going to be with him during this major situation in his life. God promised to be with him. Jacob’s God was God. No matter what he went through, including death, God would be with him. We will all die someday. I would rather die with God than without Him.

Jesus reassured the disciples in John 16:33 – “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

There are so many Scriptures that encourage and direct us to be of good courage. I shared one Old Testament and one New testament Scripture because courage is necessary when we are going through, even unto death. There is a need to focus on more than what is just comfortable for us. In fulfilling God’s plans and purpose for our lives, there is a need for courage. Each of us, individually, must dive into the Scriptures for our own lives.

When we have the courage to stand on God’s word, our life is in His hands. God is not going to tell you to do something He is not prepared to carry you through. When we have surrendered to the Almighty God, there is nothing He cannot do in our lives.

Do you have the courage to surrender to Him? The gift of salvation is free. Moving forward on this journey can sometimes be a challenge, but you are not going alone. He tells us to be of good courage, trusting and relying on Him. Praise God! Hallelujah and Amen.