22nd August 2024

Christian courage

So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord!
Psalm 31:24 (NLT)

Some people think that responses such as silence, meekness, and forgiveness are passive or weak. Yet to love our enemies, bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who despitefully use us, and persecute us takes faith, strength, and Christian courage.

When Jesus was confronted by King Herod he remained silent (Luke 23:8-9). When he stood before Pontius Pilate he was not afraid to speak a powerful testimony about his divinity and purpose (John 18:36-37). When faced with the money changers in the temple he stood up to defend the Holy Sanctuary (Matthew 21:12-13). Lifted up on the cross he displayed incredible grace and mercy (Luke 23:34).

When discussing our faith, or any other subject, it would be good to keep in mind the apostle Paul’s words: ‘…Rather than using clever and persuasive speeches, I relied only on the power of the Holy Spirit. I did this so you would trust not in human wisdom but in the power of God.’ (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).

In Webster’s dictionary meekness is defined as ‘manifesting patience and long suffering, enduring injury without resentment’. That’s a hard one! However, by trusting in God we can speak with a quiet confidence; we don’t need to defend our egos. God is on our side! As Jesus did, we can present a powerful testimony of who we are in him by relying on the Holy Spirit to guide us.

There are so many examples in the Bible of men and women of courage who trusted in God for help and deliverance. Think of Esther, Daniel, Joshua, Deborah, King David and so many more. Life is full of challenges, hardships and tough decisions. By trusting in God and placing our situations in his hands we receive the peace of God and the courage to move forward and to speak in his name.

Prayer
Almighty God. Give us the courage to walk fearlessly. Let your love be our foundation, and your wisdom our guide, as we navigate our way through the path of life. In Jesus’s name, Amen. 

Study by June Burrows

About the writer:
June Burrows is a member of the Bournemouth congregation of Grace Communion International.

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