The Daniel DilemmaSample

God can handle our scariest, most volatile emotions—just read through Psalms if you have any doubt—and he wants us to trust him with what’s at stake. David, like Daniel, Paul, and others, was courageous because he understood the power of worship. I’ve learned this lesson personally as well. At times in my life, just after I received difficult news, I’ve retreated to my office and prayed, crying out to God and worshiping him. This practice has been my lifeline, providing the daily dose of courage I needed.

So many of our trials are skewed by our perspective. For us, our problems seem overwhelming and all-encompassing while God seems small and distant. But for God, the all-powerful and all-present Lord of all creation, our problems must seem quite small. However, when we meet him in quiet time alone together, then our perspective reaches a point of balance. We still may not be able to see beyond our problems or imagine how we’ll get through them, but we know we’re going to keep our eyes on Jesus each step forward.

The more time you spend with Jesus, the less time you’re going to spend being intimidated by the opinions of others or worrying about your problems. Worshiping God has become the first thing I do whenever I’m faced with a loss, crisis, or major setback. This didn’t always come naturally to me, but now I recognize how it has saved me so many times as I seek to stand strong in my faith. Worship is your lifeblood. It will produce courage to fuel your faith when you’re being tested.

And you will be tested, my friend. The critical question is simply how you will respond: fearfully, allowing the Enemy a chance to derail your faith, or with courage to step forward and trust God with the outcome.

Culture wants to claim you—but you don’t have to let it.

You have all you need to pass any test you face.

You have the courage of the Lord.