She Is Strong and Courageous 30-Day DevotionalSample

Let God Lead – Tammie Jo Shults

Fear not for I am with you! Today’s woman of faith is Tammie Jo Shults, the female pilot who courageously landed Southwest Airlines Flight 1380. Today's devotional offers ways you can let go and let God lead in the midst of every situation you face.

“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10).

Pray: Lord, let your Word give me guidance and direction. 

Observe: We often face life in our own strength and allow our fears to overwhelm us in the midst of a challenge or crisis. The best way to quiet our concerns is to willfully embrace our God-given courage and trust him to lead. God, according to his mighty power at work within us, can accomplish far more than we might ever ask or dream (Ephesians 3:20).

The Lord doesn’t intend for us to face our challenges alone. He designed us to rely on him and live in community with others where help and support are readily available. Therefore, we must let go and let God lead.

Once we acknowledge the challenges that keep us trapped in fear, we can begin implementing daily practices that help us overcome our apprehension in order to embrace our God-given opportunities. We must always remember that Christ calls us to lay aside our hindrances and pursue his will by keeping our eyes on him, the one who perfects our faith, gives us courage, and sees us through (Hebrews 12:1–2).

Tammie Jo Shults successfully landed Southwest Airlines Flight 1380 on April 17, 2018, after one of its engines exploded. Seven passengers were injured and one died when shrapnel from the engine blew out one of the plane’s windows. Tammie, one of the first female combat aviators in the United States Navy, successfully made the emergency landing, avoiding a much greater tragedy and saving the lives of 144 passengers. 

As soon as the plane landed, Tammie quickly gave credit to God. Tammie’s close friends credit her with a “deep Christian faith” and “a fierce determination and laser focus” that accompany her sweetness.

Courageously let God lead by adopting the following practices: 

1. Acknowledge your fears and pray daily for courage. 

2. Reach out to godly friends or loved ones and ask them to pray.

3. Keep your eyes on Christ, his presence, his hope, and his help. 

4. Completely trust God with the outcome of your situations and circumstances. 

Interpret: Fear is a tactic of satan, but God gives us power, love, and discipline in all life situations.

Apply: What fears are currently causing you anxiety and apprehension? Ask God to settle your spirit and help you move forward in courage today. 

Pray: Father, thank you for leading me by your spirit and comforting me when I’m afraid. Please help me be strong and courageous as I face intimidating life experiences.