How to Be Blessed By God
Be People of Courage
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.
The way the Apostle Paul worded verse 13 of today’s scripture, it sounds like a challenge to develop a reputation of courage: “be men of courage.” In other words, be people who are courageous so often that others will take note that you are “men of courage.”
That is what Joshua did in his lifetime; developed a reputation of courage. Under Moses’ leadership, Joshua obeyed, worked hard, and made courageous decisions. When he was picked by Moses to be one of the spies sent to evaluate the Promised Land, he came back with a courageous report! Joshua was picked to take over after Moses died. Once again, Joshua demonstrated courage in his leadership of the children of Israel.
How do we develop this wonderful reputation of being a person of courage? First, we must find our own personal source for courage. In this world, some find courage in their intelligence, wealth, looks or personal strength. These all collapse in the test of time. God’s Word has passed all tests and is proven to be an eternal source of courage. Let God’s Word, the Bible, be your source of courage.
Second, we develop a reputation of courage by making courageous choices – one at a time. A reputation of any kind is developed over time. So it is with courage…each day that you live, choosing courage over fear, you take one more step toward a reputation.
“Father, I want others to know me as a person of courage. Remind me today to make courageous choices! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”