17
May '19
The Call to Courage
17
May '19
Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed . . . (1 Chronicles 28:20)
Among a display of male statues (Nelson Mandela, Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi, and others) in London’s Parliament Square, stands a lone statue of a woman. The solitary woman is Millicent Fawcett, who fought for the right of women to vote. She’s immortalized in bronze—holding a banner displaying words she offered in a tribute to a fellow suffragist: “Courage calls to courage everywhere.” Fawcett insisted that one person’s courage emboldens others—calling timid souls into action.
As David prepared to hand his throne over to his son Solomon, he explained the responsibilities that would soon rest heavy on his shoulders. It’s likely Solomon quivered under the weight of what he faced: leading Israel to follow all God’s instructions, guarding the land God had entrusted to them, and overseeing the monumental task of building the temple (1 Chronicles 28:8–10).
Knowing Solomon’s trembling heart, David offered his son powerful words: “Be strong and of good courage…fear not, nor be dismayed: for the Lord God, even my God, will be with thee” (v. 20). Real courage would never arise from Solomon’s own skill or confidence but rather from relying on God’s presence and strength. God provided the courage Solomon needed.
When we face hardship, we often try to drum up boldness or talk ourselves into bravery. God, however, is the one who renews our faith. He will be with us. And His presence calls us to courage.
What causes your heart to tremble in fear? How can you seek God’s presence and power in moving toward courage.
God, I’m often so afraid. And when I am, I’m tempted to rely on my own wits or courage—and that’s never enough. Be with me. Give me Your courage. Amen.
I was so blessed by this devotion and I felt it had to be shared with others to read. I love when it said, His presence calls us to courage. May we be encouraged and comforted by this every single day. He is so faithful, a comforter, a very present help in the time of trouble, He is…
My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord!
Today’s Reading is Proverbs 3:7