Posts Tagged ‘courage’

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The Only Guarantee in Life

Friday, January 18th, 2013

Being wheelchair-ridden and crutch-bound for the next three months will no doubt provide much fodder for my writing and speaking. That’s one of the upsides to doing what I do—most every experience offers a life lesson to share with others.

Here’s one that struck me this morning…

Life carries multiple uncertainties, right? Last Friday morning I woke with every intention to complete my new devotional manuscript by this weekend. Instead, I spent the last six days trying to figure out how to do life on crutches and in a wheelchair after partially rupturing my left Achilles tendon.

This is only one example. We could put our heads together and make a mile-long list of examples that prove life is uncertain:

  • We marry and assume we’ll have a family, but infertility proves to be a problem.
  • We conceive and assume we’ll bear a beautiful, healthy child. But the baby’s born with serious medical issues that will last a lifetime.
  • We raise our kids with biblical standards and pray for them everyday, but they get into their teenage years and make lousy choices. Their lives don’t turn out the way we’d imagined.
  • We work hard and put money into savings, but the economy tanks and we lose a huge portion of it.
  • We make wonderful plans for our retirement. The time finally comes for us to realize those plans, but our spouse passes away unexpectedly.

The list could reach to infinity and beyond, and the reality of life’s uncertainties could get downright scary and depressing. That’s not my intent through writing this post!

Rather, my intent is to bring hope and confidence in light of life’s uncertainties. Here’s the Scripture that’s encouraged me today: “I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me” (Psalm 16:8).

We might not know whether we’ll survive the day. We might not know whether the economy will work in our favor or lead to our financial ruin. We might not know whether our friends and family will stand beside us or turn against us someday. But this we do know – the Lord is always with us. No matter what life brings, we can stand strong and unshaken because He is right beside us.

How does this promise apply to you today?

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Posted in Courage, Devotionals, Fear, Hope | 2 Comments »

An Experience in Praising God

Monday, September 24th, 2012

Thanks to the Airdrie Alliance women who invited me to speak at their annual Renovare conference this weekend. Wonderful women, sweet fellowship, heartfelt worship, and together-time in God’s Word. Need I say more?

Our last session ended with a corporate praise time. Most often, it seems, we bring requests and concerns to God. That’s okay, especially since God encourages us to pour out our hearts to Him. But He also commands us to praise Him—to honor Him for who He is. And so, that’s what we did.

Popcorn-style, one woman and then the next and the next and the next praised God…

“We praise You for Your unfailing love toward us.”

“We praise You for Your faithfulness no matter what.”

“We praise You for being the bread of life.”

“We praise You for being the living water that quenches our thirst.”

“We praise You for being our Shepherd.”

The outpouring continued for several minutes. A beautiful time, it was. A time to take our focus off ourselves and our circumstances and place it on God and His character. Doing this applied Psalm 68: 3,4: “But let the godly rejoice. Let them be glad in God’s presence. Let them be filled with joy. Sing praises to God and to his name! Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds. His name is the LORD—rejoice in his presence!”

Putting this command into practice bolstered our courage by reminding us that God is bigger than anything we face today or will face in days to come. He’s all-wise, all-powerful, and all-sovereign. There’s nothing He cannot do on our behalf. With Him on our side, why should we feel afraid?

When we’re in despair or feeling anxious, praise is actually therapeutic. It transforms our perspective because it sets our spiritual sights on God and His love, faithfulness, and power. We become more aware of His holiness and His mercy on us. We become empowered as we remember that His power dwells within us through the person of the Holy Spirit.

Today, I encourage you to praise God for who He is. Here’s a video to get you started. Enjoy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5-6gwssX0Y

Question: What aspect of God’s character means the most to you today?

Photo courtesy: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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The Trouble with My Tongue

Monday, June 25th, 2012

Sometimes my tongue speaks before my brain kicks into gear. It starts to wag and spouts stuff like, “Why in the world did you do that?” or “What were you thinking?”

If I don’t catch it soon enough, it complains about the rain or whines about my workload. Occasionally it slips a juicy tidbit about someone.

Yes, my tongue can be a real pain sometimes. It has the potential to discourage and hurt other people, but it also has the potential of doing just the opposite.

When it behaves itself, it brings hope and instills courage. It plants dreams in others’ hearts, and it spurs them on to good deeds.

My tongue isn’t very pretty. In fact, it’s rather small and odd-looking, but oh, the power it wields. My desire is for that power to be used in a good way—to bless others and bring a smile to God’s face. And so my prayer each morning is this:

“Take control of what I say, O Lord, and guard my lips” (Psalm 141:2).

I whisper this prayer and then trust God to answer it. When I’m tempted to say something I shouldn’t, I often hear His voice warning me to pause and ponder first, or to refrain altogether. Most of the time I heed His warning, although I’m embarrassed to say I ignore it occasionally. Doing so always brings regrets.

Yes, my tongue is an interesting character. A bit tough to tame, but full of potential. Knowing its tendencies, I think this little prayer is a good one to apply every morning for the rest of my life. How about you? Can you relate?

Photo courtesy: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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A Good Question to Ask When We Feel Afraid

Friday, March 16th, 2012

Relevant questions reveal a lot about what people think and the reason for their behavior. Lawyers use them. So do life coaches. And parents.

David used them, too. The Psalms record numerous songs and prayers he wrote throughout his lifetime, and many contain questions. On one occasion, as he ran from enemies determined to capture or kill him, he asked, “I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?” (Psa. 56:4,11).

That’s a very good question, simple and direct. It helps us focus our spiritual eyes where they belong—on the almighty, all-wise, all-powerful God who presences Himself with His people at all times. When we truly acknowledge who He is and chose to trust His character, fear loses its grip on us. Here are some examples of how this has worked in my life:

When my husband suffered a major reaction to a wasp sting last fall, I asked myself this question and found comfort. I knew that the incident was no surprise to God, and that He would care for me if anything happened to my hubby.

When I wonder whether or not our overseas ministry will have enough volunteers to fill the necessary slots this summer, I ask myself this question and find confidence. God is a master at working out the details.

As technology forces change in publishing and marketing techniques, I ask myself this question and discover peace. I’ll do what I can knowing that God says nothing can thwart His purposes, and He controls my destiny.

I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?

If you’re facing a difficulty right now, then pause and reflect on who God is. Read the Psalms and discover who He claims to be. Praise Him for these characteristics. Thank Him for the promises He’s given you. When you’ve finished doing these things, ask yourself this question: “I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?” I guarantee you’ll find a new perspective.

Photo courtesy: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Different People, Different Perspectives

Monday, March 12th, 2012

It amazes me how different people can look at the same situation and come away with completely different perspectives.

It’s like the old fable about a group of blind men who encountered an elephant and then tried to describe the beast. Each man, having felt a different part of the elephant’s body, had a personal and unique perception of what the animal was like.

Such was the case in Numbers 13. Moses sent 12 spies into the Promised Land to scope out the people and geography. Twelve men saw the same things—a beautiful land flowing with milk and honey, bountiful harvests of fruit, and the people who lived there. Of the 12 spies, 10 cowered in fear. Only two displayed courage.

Why was that? Here’s my hunch: the majority focused on the challenges they’d face if they tried to conquer the land. Fear bulldozed them.

In contrast, the minority focused on God’s promise to give them the land. In their minds, worrisome circumstances were His problem, not theirs, to deal with. Courage controlled their response.

See what I mean about different people looking at the same situation and having different perspectives? Here are some modern-day examples:

  • A couple wants to adopt a child from overseas. The financial cost seems astronomical for their income. They’re willing to trust God to provide for their needs so they can provide a loving home for an orphaned toddler. But then a family member says, “What are you thinking? That’s ‘way too expensive. You can’t afford that!”
  • A mother prays and believes God to bring her wayward daughter home. Her husband lacks her confidence. “Don’t be a fool,” he says. “She’ll never return. Move on with your life.”
  • A man is unemployed for several months. Feelings of failure sink him into depression. His wife, however, refuses to give up. “C’mon, Honey,” she says. “God knows what He’s doing. Let’s thank Him in advance for what He’s going to do.”

In each case, someone possesses courage while another’s possessed by fear. Their focus determines their perspective and ultimately their response.

What circumstances are you facing today? What’s your perspective of the situation—are you courageous or fearful?

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How Does God Guide Us? An Example From My Life.

Friday, March 2nd, 2012

God always guides those willing to do what He says. I’ve seen this prove true many times in my life. Here’s one example:

Last fall I began planning a weekend getaway for businesswomen. This wasn’t an idea I birthed on my own; I truly believe it was conceived in God’s heart. More than a year prior, He’d challenged me from John 4, using the account where Jesus went into Samaria and sat down at the well where He knew the woman would come. Rather than waiting for her to come to Him, He went to her. He met her in her space and whet her appetite for Him.

That message convicted me. How many friends did I have outside my comfortable church circles? How much effort was I putting into getting to know other women whose beliefs didn’t match mine? What could I do to turn that around? Months passed, and the idea of a weekend getaway began to take root.

“Provide an event where women feel loved from the moment they arrive,” He said. And so I obeyed. I’ll confess, it was a scary venture.

At first, I feared no one would come. I questioned my ability to present meaningful workshop material in a format different from my norm. I doubted my ability to provide a package that would justify the financial cost. But I kept moving forward because I believed God was asking me to do this. One step, then another, and another.

One day in late December, my calendar reminded me that the event was a mere five weeks away. Plans were far beyond the point of no return. My heart raced every time I thought about how quickly the weekend was approaching. God knew my anxious thoughts, and He met me there. He did it through His Word:

“But now the LORD says: ‘Be strong, Zerubbabel. Be strong, Jeshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people still left in the land. And now get to work for I am with you,’ says the LORD of Heaven’s Armies. ‘My Spirit remains among you, just as I promised when you came out of Egypt. So do not be afraid.’”

“Keep going,” God said. “I’m with ya all the way.” Those words dashed any lingering doubts about whether I’d heard His initial marching orders correctly. They confirmed God’s hand in this venture. They boosted my courage and planted anticipation about the event. From that day on, joy replaced my scaredy-cat emotions.

The retreat has come and gone. Thirty-six women attended, and we had a great time. No doubt it will become an annual event. I’m almost ready to book the dates for 2013, and plans are in the works for holding a similar event in another province this fall.

Has God given you marching orders? Are doubts causing you to question or hesitate? If He’s planted an idea in your mind, then His Word will confirm it. Just start walking, and He’ll guide you every step of the way.

Photo courtesy: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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A Practical Lesson in Trust

Friday, December 16th, 2011

The word trust has captured my attention in the past week. It first appeared in 1 John 4:4 – “We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love.” Then it showed up in Proverbs 29:25 – “Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety.” It stepped into my path like a flagger on a road construction site, causing me to slow down and pay attention to its message.

Stop! Pay attention!

I’m in a situation that’s calling me to trust God big-time—I’m planning and hosting a winter weekend getaway for business women in early February. Registrations are coming in, but so are the unending what-ifs.  Figures. I truly believe this event is God-breathed, but the ol’ guy with a pitchfork is going to do everything possible to stop it from happening. And so, these are some of the thoughts that dawdle in my head:

What if the weather conditions are lousy that weekend? What if road conditions are poor? What if we don’t meet our budget? What if I inadvertently overlook a critical element of the weekend? What if my workshops don’t hit the mark?

This experience is proving to be a great opportunity to implement what I teach about moving beyond fear. One of the things I stress when I speak to groups is that of knowing and focusing on the truth of God’s Word rather than on the what-ifs. The what-ifs spiral us into negative thinking and fear, but the truth bolsters our courage and enables us to move forward even when we can’t see where the next step will land.

What does the truth tell me as the women’s retreat draws closer day by day? It says God loves me. I’m His child. I’m safe in His care. He has everything under His loving control.

The truth also says that fearing people is a trap. In my case, I needn’t allow my desire to make a good impression on my retreat attendees drive my plans and preparations. Rather, I need to do what God says and I will find my security and safety in Him.

Yep, I’ve appreciated seeing the word trust in my face. It’s caused me to take a deep, refreshing breath and given me the courage and confidence to keep moving forward. Can I trust God with the details of the upcoming weekend? Absolutely. Can you trust Him with the details of your life? Yes. We can trust and not be afraid because He is who He says He is.

Question: Can you think of another Scripture that contains the word trust? If so, please feel free to post it, okay? I invite you to tell how it applies to you, too.

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When God Says Go

Wednesday, April 27th, 2011

When God gives a divine assignment, our human tendency is to say, “Who, me? I can’t do that.” Fear looms, and we offer excuses such as, “I’m not smart enough,” or “I don’t have the skills necessary.”

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Gideon’s story is a prime example. When God tells him to rescue Israel from the Midianites, he immediately focuses on his inadequacy. “But Lord, how can I rescue Israel? My clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!” (Judges 6:15)

Sound familiar? I’m dealing with similar fears right now as I plan an event designed for business women. I’m convinced this is a God-given task and I’m moving forward, but part of me says, “Who, me? I don’t have anything to offer these corporate gals. Why would they want to come? What if no one registers? What if it’s a complete flop?”

Then I remember Gideon and God’s message to him: “Go with the strength you have, and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you” (v.14).

These words bring me courage. They assure me that, when God gives an assignment, He simply wants me to say yes and to move forward with whatever skills He’s given me now. “Go with the strength you have,” He says, and He looks after the details.

I also find courage in a promise God made, not once but twice. “I will be with you,” He said to Gideon (vv. 12,16). Herein lies the ultimate secret to overcoming fear. God’s presence in our lives—what more do we need? What more do I need as I move ahead with planning this event?

Can you relate to Gideon and me? If so, how does the command, “Go with the strength you have,” encourage you? How does God’s promised presence impact you?
<p><a href=”http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=721″>Image: renjith krishnan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net</a></p

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What Makes Believers Different?

Wednesday, February 16th, 2011

Scripture says Jesus’ followers are supposed to be salt and light, right? How does that happen? Here’s my two cents’ worth:

God’s presence is the key that sets us apart from the rest of the world. His Holy Spirit lives in us 24/7. If we allow Him full control, then He fills us with peace, patience, joy, gentleness, love, and wisdom. He teaches us how to behave in a people-respecting and God-honoring manner.

Practically speaking, that means we don’t yell and stamp our feet or slam the door behind us when we don’t get our own way. We don’t cheat on our income taxes. We stay true to our spouse. We turn off the TV when it’s broadcasting smut. Get the picture? God’s presence in us is supposed to make us different than the average Joe. But I think there’s more.

I believe His presence produces courage in us. Whether facing personal problems or global crisis, followers of Christ can emulate confidence. That doesn’t mean we never feel afraid, but it means we know how to deal with the fear when it strikes and we refuse to let it consume us.

When people look at us, they see something different – or at least they should! They ought to see character qualities and inner strength that attract them and cannot be counterfeited.

“For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth,” said Moses (Exodus 33:16). I think he’s right. How about you?

 Question: How do you think God’s presence sets His people apart from all others on the earth?

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World-Changing Women

Monday, February 1st, 2010

Hey, what’s the deal? I set this devotional to go out early this morning, and just discovered that it’s still sitting in the box. Sorry to anyone who looked for it earlier today. Anyhow….here it is.

What qualities characterize a world-changing woman? If I did a survey, the answers might include, but not be limited to, the following:

  • The ability to love others unconditionally and encourage them to develop their full potential.
  • The ability to discern right from wrong.
  • A servant’s heart.
  • Wisdom.
  • Prayer.
  • The ability to see obstacles as opportunities.

I’ve pondered this question in preparation for speaking at a retreat later this year, and I believe I’ve found another answer in Exodus 1. This passage tells the story of the Jews’ population growing in Egypt. The king grew anxious, afraid that the Israelites would soon overpower his nation. And so, he issued an evil order to two Hebrew midwives in particular: “Kill all the Jewish baby boys as soon as they are born. Allow only the baby girls to live” (v. 16).

How did the women respond? Not according to the king’s wishes, that’s for sure. “Because the midwives feared God, they refused to obey the king and allowed the boys to live, too” (v. 17).

In my opinion, the courage of these midwives – based on their love and respect for God – clearly marks them as world-changing women. Their honor for Him outweighed their fear of the king, and their actions proved it. As a result, they were willing to risk their lives to please Him rather than bow to an evil man’s edict.

How might I have responded in the same situation? If an evil king was pressuring me to do his dirty work, would I have said no, or would I have caved in and agreed? I can only hope that I’d display the same bravery as they did. I can only hope that I, too, would hold fast to what is true and right regardless of the cost.

May that be true of all of us today. When we face situations where we’re forced to choose between God and man, may we fear God more. May we be willing to sacrifice everything for His cause. And may we be counted among those who are truly world-changers.

What quality do you think a world-changing woman possesses?

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