Thursday’s Devotion: A New Courage

Joshua 1:9  “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Someone proposed something at a meeting yesterday and everyone was about to go along with the motion when I said, “Wait, I don’t think that’s a good idea.”  It really wasn’t the best scenario for one person to be both president and vice-president of a board. Who would preside if that person couldn’t be there? We subsequently elected a separate person for the second position.  The amazing thing is that I spoke up and objected even though this was only my second meeting and many had been on that board for years. I used to be very shy about expressing a difference of opinion in settings like that. I was afraid of being criticized or of finding out that my suggestion had little merit because I didn’t know what I was talking about.  I didn’t want to displease others.  I want to testify that the minute I accepted God’s call to ministry I was infused with a new boldness – one like I’d never had before.  God has helped me grow into my own person.  I’m more confident and some of that is caring less about what others think and more about what God thinks.  It’s important for a pastor to be able to speak and preach prophetically and that sometimes means stepping on people’s toes or making statements with which some might disagree.  I think God probably wants that of all of us as we testify to the Good News and live out the example of righteousness as exemplified by Christ.  Be strong and courageous. Remember, courage is fear that has said its prayers.

Dear God, we ask that you give us the boldness to speak out for ourselves and for the good of others. Guide us in life so that we may in turn lead others to a better way.  We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.