Kings are Courageous
16th MAY 2022
This is my command — be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord, your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NLT)
The Greek word translated as “courage” means boldness and confidence. It is the quality of having a strong, vivid or clear appearance. To effectively exert our authority as kings and as leaders, we must be courageous.
Notable for their acts of courage are the likes of Esther, Moses, and Gideon. We read off how they overcame opposition and saved their people. However, they weren’t always that bold. Initially, when presented with the opportunity to lead, each of them dismissed the idea and tried to avoid it for various reasons.
Esther feared she’d lose her life should she approach the King uninvited, Moses was concerned about his lack of eloquence and Gideon’s focus was on his ranking in society and his family. How then did they go on to accomplish all they did? They switched the lens and began to focus not on themselves, but on the God who called them.
Their confidence to step out came from knowing they were backed by God and for that reason, Esther who once feared for her life was able to utter the words “if I perish, I perish”. The not so eloquent Moses successfully gave orders to thousands of people, leading them to the promised land, and little old Gideon went on to defeat the Midianites.
Part of being courageous is looking to God for strength and the other part is stepping out knowing that, indeed, He is with you everywhere you go. As it stands you may not feel strong or courageous, but I encourage you to prayerfully seek the face of God and dedicate time to the study of His word, because only then will you acquire the courage; the confidence and the boldness you need to step out and affect your world for Christ.
Father, forgive us for the many times we’ve looked to ourselves for strength and not to You. Thank You that in You, we can do all things and that as we take bold steps in line with our Kingship mandate You are right there to order our steps.
Further Reading: Isaiah 43:1 / Psalms27:1–2
Bible In One Year: Job [42] & Psalms [1–3]
