Strengthening Your Faith
From the beginning of our Christian journey, and throughout our spiritual development, we strive to increase our faith. Growing in
We are living in challenging times. Civil unrest, a pandemic, economical collapse, and catastrophic natural disasters are a threat to us all. Fear is gripping the hearts of many and causing devastating effects such as chronic anxiety, depression, and suicide. This 3-day devotional will help us to redirect our focus and to place our hope and trust in the Lord our God.
FIGHT FEAR WITH COURAGE
“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 KJV
In Joshua the first chapter, the Lord God called Joshua to accomplish what he may have thought to be an insurmountable task. The Lord required Joshua to lead the people in battle and to conquer that which was unknown. God encouraged Joshua to have courage, which would enable him to do it all without fear.
Everyone has experienced the emotion of fear. It is a natural response to perceived danger, whether real or imagined. It is a defense mechanism that increases our chances of survival. You can take authority over your fears. God has given us the ability to overcome the paralyzing effect of fear with courage. To display courage is to move forward despite your fear. Remember God’s promise that He is always with you…and move forward!
REFLECTION: What has fear stopped you from accomplishing?
COURAGE IS A CALL TO ACTION:
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV
Courage causes us to rise up and respond to challenging and unfamiliar situations. As believers in Christ, we will never reach a plateau where we no longer need to grow and expand. No matter our gifting or position in the Kingdom, the Lord continues to stretch us, teach us, and challenge us. When we have new encounters and experiences in Him, remember God knows the way that we take. He has a plan for us and He is there to guide and protect us. Do not be afraid.
REFLECTION: Who is the most courageous person you know and what can you learn from them?
COURAGE BEGETS COURAGE
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 NKJV
You develop courage by practicing courage. Build your courage muscles each day by facing your fears. The more you fight your fear and move forward in courage, the more courage you will have. Fear is a bully; you must stop running, face it and defeat fear with your courage. When you are confronted with your own insecurities, anxiety about moving forward, or your fear of accepting life’s challenges, remind yourself that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.
CHALLENGE: List three things you would like to accomplish but hesitate because of fear. List them in order of priority. Start with the number one item by taking the first step toward your goal, and continue until you complete the task. Then move to the next priority. May the Lord grant you good success!
From the beginning of our Christian journey, and throughout our spiritual development, we strive to increase our faith. Growing in
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