Find Your BraveSample

Have you ever broken a bone and needed a cast put on? I have. The cast acts as a brace, a support mechanism, so that the bone can regain its strength. Well, just as a broken arm needs a cast, we too need support mechanisms in order to make it through our difficult times. We’ll look at two of those supports today and tomorrow.

SUPPORT #1: THE WORD OF GOD

If we are going to successfully navigate whatever challenge we might be in, whether it is in our health (I have been there), our marriage (been there too) or loss (yep, that too), we have to manage our thoughts. And honestly, the best place to begin that process is to read the Bible. Maybe you are feeling fear. Most of us do when we are in the midst of a challenge. So to deal with the fear, let’s open the Bible. The Psalms are a great place to start. King David, who wrote most of the book, had to deal regularly with fear.

If you say, “The LORD is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. (Psalm 91:9–11)

I’ve faced many moments in which fear tried to pull me under. To deal with my fear, I quoted that passage and many others out loud so that my mind could hear them! I had to control my thoughts. I know this sounds simple. Read a verse in the Bible, say it out loud. Read a verse in the Bible, say it out loud. Faith does come when we hear the Word of God, and sometimes we need to hear it coming from our own mouth.

But this is just the first step. I am not trying to be trite or platitudy (I am sure that is not a word), but the truth is, if we don’t know His Word, we will not make it out of the storm.

ACTION: What verse can you find to help you manage your thoughts today?