Naturally, I would say that I am not a very bold and courageous person. I crave safety and security, and I love to follow the rules. It took me years to overcome my shyness, and I often still have to work at being outgoing rather than reverting to my introverted and reserved ways. One of my favorite things to do is have a chill, relaxed night at home with my family. You could say that I am a homebody. Being around large crowds of people can make me nervous and stressed. The thought of the unknown can be terrifying–I love to plan and know what to expect, and prepare for it, and then decide if I want to step out into it. Criticism has been my worst enemy, and the thought of others disapproving of me has often left me paralyzed. And if someone had told me when I was in middle school that I would end up speaking in front of large groups of people, I would have laughed and run as fast as I could in the opposite direction (and sometimes that’s still my gut reaction if someone asks me to do just that).
“Brave” is not a word that I would use to describe myself.
But you know what, God is calling me to be just that. He is calling me to be brave. He is calling me to be bold, courageous, and confident. And I believe this call is not just for me…it is for all of us.
I love this quote by Lara Casey, “Dear Self (and everyone everywhere!), your playing small is not serving the world!”
I don’t want to live a small life. I don’t want to only accomplish small things. I want to accomplish BIG things that glorify God and change the world! But none of that will ever happen if I allow the things I listed in the paragraph above to restrict me and put me in a box. God wants to free me (and you) from the box!
If we keep our focus on ourselves and the circumstances that surround us, any ounce of courage that we do have will quickly disappear. But when we focus on God, and know that he is always with us and that he is for us, then we can have boldness like no other!
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
“Jesus looked at them and said to them, ‘With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’” – Matthew 19:26
“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.” – John 14:12
“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” – Romans 8:31
Today, I want to tell you–God is FOR you! He will never leave you! Those dreams in your heart that he’s given you, they ARE possible. The negative comments that other people have said about you? They have no merit! The opinions and approval of other people? They don’t matter! The ways you have been mistreated, hurt, and abused? God will take the burden of those things and bring healing. The failures and mistakes of your past? They are forgotten, forgiven, wiped clean. Your fears, insecurities, and shortcomings are NOTHING compared to the strength and ability God gives you. He has a purpose and a plan for your life that is bigger and greater than anything you could ever imagine! Your best days? They are not behind you! They are yet to come!
Don’t we all want to see the impossible take place in our lives? I know I do! But in order to walk on water, we must take that first step. Step out, keep your eyes on Jesus, and don’t look back. Be brave!
What are some ways you need to courageously step out in? What has been holding you back?
(If you need some inspiration to be brave, bold, and courageous, listen to this song below! It is so good.)
You Make Me Brave by Amanda Cook, the title track off of Bethel Music‘s upcoming live album (releasing April 22nd, 2014).
LYRICS
I stand before You now
The greatness of Your renown
I’ve heard of the majesty and wonder of You
King of Heaven, in humility, I bow
As Your love, in wave after wave
Crashes over me, crashes over me
For You are for us, You are not against us
Champion of Heaven,
You made a way for all to enter in
I’ve heard You calling my name
I’ve heard the song of love that You sing
So I will let you draw me out beyond the shore
Into Your grace
You make me brave
You make me brave
You call me out beyond the shore into the waves
You make me brave
You make me brave
No fear can hinder now the Love that made a way
You make me brave
You make me brave
You call me out beyond the shore into the waves
You make me brave
You make me brave
No fear can hinder now the promises You’ve made