A Constant Creator

Happy #faithfilledsonday

What does it mean to be strong and courageous? Does it mean “do it afraid?” Does it mean “trust God no matter what?” Does it mean “fight the good fight of faith” or “the Lord will fight for me, and hold my peace”??

Does it change with my circumstances or is it a constant reminder of God being with me always?

Often strength is tied to how much one can bear, how long one can endure, how successfully one overcomes an obstacle. Courage is often tied to a negative counterpart that is obtrusive, oppressive, and outspoken. It’s a badge of honor after we have conquered. We see strength and courage daily, sometimes in ourselves, in our heroes, and in our inspirations; yet it takes extraordinary strength and courage to recognize and/or acknowledge God’s attributes, track record, and plan when it comes to our lives. 

Even though God is the BASIS and EPITOME of strength and the ultimate conqueror (courage).

In the “extra,” I am learning strength in a new light. A strength that is dependent on God (without shame or remorse), a strength that is not afraid of letting go and relinquishing control, and a strength that truly trusts beyond the very real—visible, emotional, and psychological challenges of this world. This strength is not tied into what I can do, acceptance, or even performance. This  strength is about who God created me to be and who I am—when they dwell in harmony, I experience the peace that surpasses all understanding. I experience victory beyond tally marks and w’s—victory is a way of life that is full and abundant. If not with people, places. If not places, things. If not with things, ideas. If not with ideas, peace. If not with peace, joy. If not with joy, love. And with Love—grace and mercy.

I would like to revisit strength and courage with a part ll I’ve started next week.

until then,

God bless and God keep.

—JCB