When I was a teenager, I was a daredevil. Perhaps, I watched too many Evel Knievel stunts on television. I once tried to jump the creek in my backyard only to miss the edge of the ramp I made flying into the air. That one year I was forced to try gymnastics as a child paid off as I went into a roll to avoid any injuries. As an adult, I don’t have the courage that I once possessed. Perhaps, listening to Kristene Dimarco’s song Take Courage will inspire you to take more chances by leaving your comfort zone.
Be strong (confident) and of good courage, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. 7 Only you be strong and very courageous, that you may do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you. Turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go, Joshua 1:6-7.
As Israel was preparing to enter God’s promised land, Joshua gives a pep talk. After wandering in the wilderness for 40 years, the time had arrived for Israel’s new leader to communicate God’s message of courage. While I didn’t include the entire context of this passage, Joshua suggests that courage comes from meditating on God’s Word day and night, Joshua 1:8. As you listen to Take Courage, may you think about memorizing scripture in 2023 to enhance a spirit of courage, 2 Timothy 1:7.
by Jay Mankus