“…In this world you are going to have trouble. But be courageous! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 EHV

Let’s address this third key point from the last post (Isolated but Never Alone), “Jesus knew we would face troubles and wanted us to trust Him by having courage.”  

What is courage?  Mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty per the Merriam-Webster dictionary. Notice that it is strength to endure fear (anxiety, panic, stress, etc.) or struggles? We will feel it, but we will get through it!

Mark Twain said, “Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear – not absence of fear.”  

Edmond Mbiaka pointed out that, “The answer to every adversity lies in courageously moving forward with faith.” Jesus has defeated our enemy, so we need to trust Him to help and direct us through the issues we are facing. 

How do we do this? Get into God’s Word (Bible), read His promises, and meditate on it. Ask for wisdom, understanding, guidance, and let Him lead you on the path you should follow.

A powerful scripture to pray is Psalms 119:26-32 MSG, “…train me well in your deep wisdom. Help me understand these things inside and out so I can ponder your miracle-wonders.  …build me up again by your Word. …grace me with your clear revelation. I’ll run the course you lay out for me if you’ll just show me how.” 

I enjoy Dr. Seuss’s take on troubles, “I learned there are troubles of more than one kind. Some come from ahead, others come from behind. But I’ve bought a big bat. I’m all ready, you see. Now my troubles are going to have trouble with me.”

Let Jesus be the “big bat” you carry to battle your problems, so you can gain courage and WIN!

My prayer for you is found in Joshua 1:9 ISV, “Be strong and courageous. Don’t be fearful or discouraged, because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Thank you for your time. Be Blessed… LR Maddox
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