by When you follow world events, does your heart beat with just a little trepidation? Does it sometimes seem like everything is on some suspended anticipation for a significant event? Or that the ‘darkness is getting darker’ so to speak?
One thing is for sure, we seem to be living in a time that scripture had already predicted. However, knowing that doesn’t make it any easier.
Recently on one online platform, a discussion arose on how people should face these uncertain times. The answers were nothing short of imaginative and hilarious. The most common response was to stop paying taxes of course, while others were contemplating building bunkers and retreating there. Others advocated for long term storage of lots of food and nature lovers urged the rest that going back to nature and living simply was the best way to deal with all the mayhem. The general feeling that permeated the discussion though was fear.
As a believer, we are not completely immune to fear, but we need not be crippled by it even as we see what we believe to be the beginning of the end. We know who we serve and who we belong to and that should distinguish our response to these times from others. In the face of uncertainty, courage becomes an indispensable virtue, especially for those who adhere to the Christian faith. The Bible is replete with verses that exhort believers to be courageous, offering solace and guidance in navigating the tumultuous waters of life.
Drawing from these timeless scriptures, let us explore how Christians can live courageously amidst uncertainty, along with five practical ways to exercise courage daily.
Scriptural foundations for 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.” This verse encapsulates the essence of courage for Christians. It reminds us that our courage stems from the presence and promises of God Himself.
Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” In times of uncertainty, we can find reassurance in God’s unwavering presence and His promise to strengthen and support us.
Psalm 27:1 – “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” This verse reminds us that our courage stems from our faith in God’s protection and provision, making fear obsolete in His presence.
2 Timothy 1:7 – “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” As Christians, we are endowed with the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to face uncertainties with boldness, love, and self-control.
Romans 8:31 – “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” This verse reinforces the truth that God’s sovereignty and favor are greater than any challenge or uncertainty we may encounter.
Practical ways to exercise courage daily:
Prayer and meditation: Start each day by immersing yourself in prayer and meditation on God’s Word. This practice strengthens your faith, aligns your perspective with God’s truth, and fortifies your spirit to face whatever uncertainties lie ahead.
Step out of your comfort zone: Courage often requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s initiating a difficult conversation, pursuing a new opportunity, or standing up for your convictions, be willing to embrace discomfort for the sake of growth and obedience to God’s calling.
Community and fellowship: Surround yourself with fellow believers who can provide support, encouragement, and accountability. Engage in meaningful conversations, share your struggles, and offer support to others, knowing that you are not alone in your journey.
Embrace resilience: Understand that setbacks and challenges are inevitable, but they do not define you. Embrace resilience by viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth and trusting in God’s faithfulness to see you through every trial.
Acts of compassion and service: Extend courage to others by practicing acts of compassion and service. Whether it’s volunteering your time, lending a listening ear, or offering practical assistance to those in need, embody the love of Christ in tangible ways that inspire courage and hope in others. When you are engaged in serving others, you find that you seldom have the time to feed your fears or engage in paralyzing pity parties.
In conclusion, living courageously in these uncertain times is not merely a call to action; it’s a reflection of our trust in God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. By anchoring ourselves in the truth of His Word, embracing discomfort for the sake of growth, nurturing supportive relationships, cultivating resilience, and extending compassion to others, we can navigate this season with unwavering courage and faith.
Living courageously in this season gives us every opportunity to share with others the reason for the hope we have in Him who calls us His own. As we heed the scriptural exhortation to “be strong and courageous,” let us remember that our courage is not self-generated but rooted in the unchanging character of our loving and omnipotent God.
