Then the Lord turned to [Gideon] and said, “Go with the strength you have, and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you!” Judges 6:14 (NLT)
We’ve been on a series discussing ways to go greater with God. Much of it involves preparing ahead of time. But today we’re going to talk about something very active: exhibiting courage.
It’s not about whether you feel courageous. I couldn’t tell you how many times I looked at the challenges ahead and felt my stomach go into a knot. If you’re experiencing the same thing, speak to your emotions and tell them to be still (Psalm 46:10, 131:2). I’m not saying you shouldn’t pay attention to your emotions—just don’t allow them to lead your life. Decide to exhibit courage.
The truth is, nobody is fearless. A soldier who dives out of a foxhole to rescue his comrade who’s been shot isn’t feeling less fear than anyone else. He just acts against the fear. That’s the kind of person I want to be.
Gideon had to learn how to act with courage. An angel of the Lord found him in hiding, yet declared him a mighty man of valour. Gradually, Gideon began to accept this new view of himself and acted accordingly.
Courage is rising up with the strength you have and taking action. Sometimes that action is simply getting out of bed and doing something you’ve been putting off—and fear begins to dissipate. The Word says faith without corresponding action is dead. It’s in the doing that we push fear away, because it takes action to walk in faith.
Get up and decide, “I will be courageous no matter how I feel today.” Your life will have a greater impact than you can imagine on those around you!
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