The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines courage as mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. What it doesn’t tell us is how to GET it!

Ah man!!!

I’ve often wondered what Abraham, Moses, Noah, David, Peter and Jesus’ mother, Mary, had that God chose them to lead His people, fight for His cause and stand against the majority.  All of them were ordinary individuals who led non-descript lives until God came calling.

Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. 1 Cor. 1:26-28

WHEW!  Makes me feel better already!!

Clearly, God does not call the best of the best. Nevertheless, the common thread between all these people is that they TRUSTED God, which in turn, made them courageous in their living.

But, we have to keep in mind that everyone’s courage is different.

For example, I can share with the world my feelings through the written word, stand before a crowd and tell a story or sing in front of strangers – none of these things takes courage for me because I enjoy them.

However, ask me to confront a problem with another person and you’ll see a chicken scurrying back to her coop!!

What’s interesting is that when I’m placing my trust in the Lord, asking for His guidance and walking on His path I can do ANYTHING.  Confrontation is still a bit uncomfortable, but I’m strengthened by the Lord and able to withstand the deed without quaking in my boots too much.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:19

My courage disappears the moment I get too big for my britches and think I’m the one with the big guns and selfishly follow my own will.

The key is to trust and obey.

Then you will prosper if you are careful to observe the statutes and the rules that the Lord commanded Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Fear not; do not be dismayed. 1Chronicles 22:13

Did you hear the caveat to prosperity?  It shouted, “Obey the Lord”!!!

I’m sure it’s not shocking to hear that trust and obedience are difficult to do.  The greatest reason for this is because we are selfish and self-serving.  It is only when we agree for God to sit in the driver’s seat do we grow in trust and obedience.

The Biblical heroes did have something in common:  They ALL answered the call of our Heavenly Father. They trusted Him to guide them and take care of them. AND, they all courageously lived a life of obedience.

Are you courageous enough to allow God to take the lead in your own life?

Some Wisdom for Today:  Proverbs 28:1 – The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.