Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- January 10, 2013
“But David said to Saul, “Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it.” 1 Samuel 17:34-35
Courage created in youthful days is most likely appropriated in later days. David, under the authority and canopy of God’s creation, learned courage as a shepherd, the protector of the sheep. Teenagers placed in challenging situations like sports, academics and standing alone morally have an opportunity to be courageous for Christ. These early life lessons become memories of God’s faithfulness etched into their moldable minds. Courage gives confidence.
Be careful not to overprotect your child, so that they miss out on seeing the Lord work through their courageous acts of service. Perhaps you encourage them to get a job, so that they can learn how to be like Jesus in the workplace. Or, you allow them to attend public school, so under your prayerful support, they become salt and light to their fellow students and faculty. Better for a teenager to learn courage in your accepting home, so that you can coach them. Challenges are courage builders.
“And don’t let anyone put you down because you’re young. Teach believers with your life: by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity.” 1 Timothy 4:12, The Message
Have you lost your courageous edge for Christ? What are you attempting that is risky for the Lord? Maybe He is calling you back to get a graduate degree, though its been over 20 years since your college graduation. Your moral courage can become a flood light of faith in spiritually sterile academia. Take heart and courageously keep your marriage commitment or your volunteer assignment. Setbacks are meant to bring us back to bold dependence on God. Be bold for Him!
Ask Christ to give you the courage to overcome your fear of rejection, your fear of public speaking or your fear of death. Courage from within understands it’s all about Him, not you. You risk misunderstanding and mistreatment for the sake of the gospel, but Christ was courageous for you. Remember your bold initiatives for God right after you tasted His grace for the very first time. Use the memories of your youthful courage as a conduit for boldness. Courage overcomes!
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me Your courage to take risks for You.
Related Readings: 2 Samuel 7:27; 2 Chronicles 5:8; Ezra 10:4; Matthew 14:27; Acts 27:25
Post/Tweet today: Setbacks are meant to bring us back to bold dependence on God. #courage
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