21 Ways To Thrive By 45ናሙና

Trade Fear for Courage

Fear digs its claws in deep and shakes you to the core. It’s downright debilitating, affecting your heart, mind, body, and soul. Fear isolates and puts us on high alert, attempting to rob us of courage. Fear convinces us the worst things in life will destroy us.

The saints of Israel were familiar with fear. In Deuteronomy 31, Moses instructed Joshua to “be strong and take courage,” because he knew the enemy and obstacles were many. Moses knew Joshua needed a solid reminder that God was bigger than his fears. God was bigger than an opposing army. God was available to Joshua and he’s available to us. Moses assured Joshua that God was a constant companion able to replace his fear with courage, as he trusted in the Father.

We fight feelings of fear with praise. We commit to relying on the Father when fear grips our hearts. When we praise through our fears, we rely not on our own strength to get through fearful times but the mighty hand of God. No matter the fear, rational or irrational, the truth sets our feet and heart on solid ground.

Living in a cycle of fear makes our faith anemic. We miss the adventurous, daring, and wild life the Lord invites. Make no apologies for the courage that comes through trusting Jesus.

Pray that Christ would give you a fresh perspective and felt protection from festering fears, no matter how big or small. Meditate on Deuteronomy 31:6-8 and, like Joshua, walk in the strength and weight of their words. Let them speak peace and courage to your heart and mind. Trust that God is good no matter what. This life isn’t easy but he is faithful, no matter what you encounter. May you see his hand and faithfulness weaved throughout every day of your life.