Bravery in The Lord, that’s what I feel God Almighty; or maybe that’s what I need. And, oh how grateful I am that You are God Almighty, Creator of the heavens and the earth—and that nothing is impossible for You. I would be sheepish without You in front of me.
So, what is bravery—it’s not being fearless, fear still creeps in. It’s not knowing that there are no risks; quite the opposite, it’s making myself vulnerable fully aware of the risks.
It’s acting despite fear and vulnerability. It’s setting myself aside for the benefit of another, or even myself.
Proverbs 3:5-6 comes to mind “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
When I live life on my own, in my own strength and for my own aims and desires, I lack courage and bravery. When I live with You, confident that You are leading the way and walking before me, those curvy and dangerous paths don’t scare me as much; and I know that You can make them straight. The unknown that lies before me isn’t quite as ominous because I know that You’ll be with me in it. Despite that I have no real control or choice in my circumstances, I have a quiet confidence that it’ll all be okay even if the worst happens. Even when my current desires and goals must be set aside, I know that You’ll take care of me and that’ll You’ll never leave me or forsake me.
That kind of confidence is divine and not of human making. It can only come from You!
I’m reminded of a prayer that I’ve prayed based on Isaiah 30:15. “O God of peace, You have taught me that in returning and resting in You I am saved; in quietness and confidence in You, that’s my strength. By the might of Your Spirit, Lord Jesus, lift me to Your Presence, where I may be still and know that You are God.”
Need I say more, Lord? You are my strength, my confidence, my courage and bravery. I need to be with You to gather it all up.
In the Awe Provoking Strength of The Lord Jesus Christ I pray.
Amen.
