MONTHLY BLOG
COURAGE
Not sure if you saw it or not but the April update contained a video of granddaughter Louise jumping off an elevated log into her daddy, Mike's arms. We had some rich moments as a family at the obstacle course area after our noon meal. this first picture is of
grandson Asher walking the log on his own.
Children are experts at peeling away the layers of life to reveal raw and beautiful lessons. The first few engagements with the log for all the grandkids included trepidation, fear, uncertainty and doubt. Courage killers. As time went by, hands were held less firmly then not at all. A beautiful reality began to take shape. Encouragement, attempts, support when needed and a little bit of role modeling (peer pressure), did its work. Confidence grew and courage won the day.
Much has been written and talked about concerning courage. I doubt I can add much new - but I am not trying to be new, I am trying to evoke consideration and action. When fear wins, faith dies and something good is missed. The things that we should be about, the ways we are to be about them are not engaged or done so halfheartedly.
What are the places God has called you to that require courage? Courage means to fill the heart with what is needed to face what is difficult, dangerous or painful. The Spirit we are filled with is courageous by nature. Someone reached out to me today to ask for prayers and counseling for their marriage - courage. Some are resolving to get off their devices and do something of purpose - courage. Some are standing up for truth in the workplace, in the community at school - courage.
So i want you to watch this video (maybe again) because the things that are needed for courage to be built and some of what it can lead to are here. The courage, joy and trust did not arrive on it's own. It was a process of relationship, investment, trust and growth. It was a part of fellowship and comminity. Each person's experience added to the story.
So now, what outcomes of courage? Joy, freedom that comes when fear is not the boss, trust, stronger relationships are all on display.
What do you need the strength of God to work in your life? What are the voices that speak against that movement? Ask the Lord for His Spirit to fill your heart and ask others to help you overcome the things that have held yo back for maybe oh so long. Then with joy walk steadfastly and jump with abandon.
