Grace Notes – Gracious Courage
“Be strong and let your hearts take courage,
All you who wait for and confidently expect the Lord.”
Psalm 31:24 AMP
Grace Perspective:
Courage…to gain strength, to be strong, and to remain firm. David, the author of this Psalm, was a courageous man who faced stressful situations often. He wrote this passage to remind himself to look to the LORD for courage and strength when distressed. The LORD is faithful to hear our cries when we are afflicted within and without. God gives gracious courage to those who wait for Him with confident expectations.
A Touch of Grace:
Where do you find the courage to face stressful circumstances?
What do you need the courage to face today?
Grace Application:
What does it look like to have a courageous heart? A heart that remains firm when faced with opposition? Do you have to have strong muscles and be trained to fight? Hmmm…where did David find courage when he faced a giant? David sought the LORD.
Courage comes from remembering Who God is, especially when we are distressed. Courage doesn’t mean we have to be in top fighting form physically (whew! I’m relieved). However, we need to strengthen our minds to protect against the enemy who will attack our thoughts and hearts. What we believe about God will influence us greatly when we face difficult situations.
Throughout this Psalm (please read it all), David reminds himself who God is. He highlights many of the Lord’s characteristics, recalling Who is the source of his strength. David knows he can trust the LORD to be a place of refuge. He knows the God of truth and faithfulness has redeemed him. David commits himself to God, rejoicing in His steadfast love even when affliction comes his way. When distressed, David remembers God’s gracious compassion even as his enemies scheme against him. David reminds himself to be confident in the LORD’s lovingkindness and goodness because He is with us even when we are weak, grieving, and weary from life’s stresses. David knows that God hears his cry for help and that the LORD will preserve those He loves. God gives us gracious courage to face whatever comes our way, and we can wait with confident expectation for the LORD to provide the strength to endure.
Each day, I need courage to face the thoughts that distract me, distress me, and can quickly cause me to spiral downward into despair. Dear friend, I don’t know where you find yourself today; perhaps you face a distressing relationship, an illness, financial hardship, the grief of losing a loved one, or are overwhelmed by a busy life. Wherever you are, like David, cry out to the LORD and seek Him by reading the Bible. Learn more about the One who made you, and know that He will give you the courage and strength to face the struggles in life.
Prayer:
Gracious Father, I come to You in the precious name of Jesus Christ, thankful that You give me courage to face the distresses life brings. Father, You are trustworthy, and Your steadfast love promises that even when life is hard, You will give me the courage to stand firm in Your truth. You are always with me and hear me when I cry. You will preserve me when I’m afflicted within and without. Your strength gives me gracious courage to wait for You with confidence. Amen
**Today, as you read this, I pray each of you will know you are in Christ Jesus. If you have any doubts, please call out to God so that all doubt is erased. Today is a good day to be assured of Salvation in Christ Jesus. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me at graceisdawning@gmail.com**