“Good Courage” (SLT 67)
“Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point.” ~ C. S. Lewis
Courage is not the absence of fear. Courage is the determination to not let fear stop you. People with courage do it afraid. “Good Courage” is a faith-driven boldness. Faith always overcomes fear. If you desire to be a courageous leader who overcomes fear and uncertainty to get the job done, become a faith-filled leader. Be of good courage and lead with confidence.
Anyone who finds themselves in a position of leadership will most certainly encounter either a cavernous uncertainty or an overwhelming crisis that will require courage. I love the way Paul frames the concept of faith-filled courage with an eternal perspective:
Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave to us the Spirit as a pledge. Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord for we walk by faith, not by sight…we are of good courage. (2 Corinthians 5:5-8a NASB)
No matter what challenges you are facing today, face them with “Good Courage”. Frame your difficulties in the context of eternity and God’s bigger purpose. You are never alone. Take full advantage of the ministry of the Holy Spirit in your life. After all, the Holy Spirit is called “The Comforter” who brings peace that passes understanding. The Holy Spirit will always remind you of God’s provision and faithfulness in your life.
Walking by faith is simply taking the next step without any assurance of safety or reward. Walking by faith and not by sight is truly a prayer journey that prefers spiritual insight overseeing tangible evidence. Ask “The Comforter” to help you and learn to trust God with your entire journey…even the difficult and scary times. Walking by faith can be like traveling through fog; slow down, increase your focus and remember that as you move forward, more will be revealed.
Never lose sight of the fact that God is in control and He is working out His eternal plan and purpose both in and through you. You will have difficult and challenging days. As a leader, how you navigate the hard times will affect the confidence of your team. Always be of good courage and lead through the tough times with confidence in God’s eternal purpose for you.
One final thought: This world is just our temporary home. This life and all its struggles will someday pass. Pause to ponder the promise of your eternal home. Try to hold onto the assurance of the eternal hope you have in Jesus Christ. This life is all about that life. You are part of God’s big eternal purpose and plan. He has promised to work all things together for our good and for His glory. By faith, be bold, and find joy in the adventure today. Lead with “Good Courage”.