I don’t always feel that I have the courage I need to face life’s challenges. Growing up quite introverted and still overcoming a degree of shyness, peace and quiet has always been very important to me. Disharmony, conflict, aggressive environments drain me. This, combined with my tendency to worry incessantly oftentimes makes me feel ill equipped to deal with conflict situations.Of course, there are times when avoiding conflict and distressing situations is not possible and I feel my heart failing within me.

Thankfully, we have a God who can fight our battles with us and alongside us. In Psalm 31:24 we are told to “be strong and let your heart take courage…”.  In Joshua 1:9, we are told not to be afraid as God assures as that He will be with us wherever we go.

Scripture assures us that we can face life’s challenges as long as we take it to God first. Whatever challenges we face, pray to God in the first instance and seek His counsel. He will guide us in the right way to approach the situation, whether it be to respond in which case He will teach us what to say (Exodus 4:12, Luke 21:15), or to remain still –“the LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent” (Exodus 14:14 ). 

Nothing is ever a surprise to God or happens without His authority.  He knew beforehand we would face this challenge and He equips us to face each situation with faith and peace. Knowing that is greatly re-assuring and can help us build courage to face crisis we encounter or everyday challenges without losing our inner calm.

~God bless you

“Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong” ~ 1 Corinthians 16:13 

“Be strong, and let us show ourselves courageous for the sake of our people and for the cities of our God; and may the LORD do what is good in His sight.”~ 2 Samuel 10:12 

“Be strong and let your heart take courage, All you who hope in the LORD” ~ Psalm 31:24 

“So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” ~ Deuteronomy 31:6

“For the LORD your God is a compassionate God; He will not fail you nor destroy you nor forget the covenant with your fathers which He swore to them.” ~ Deuteronomy 4:31