'For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.'
2 Timothy 1:7
Jesus makes us brave. Bravery isn't always going on an adventure with a bunch of dwarves, or fighting wizards (I apologise for my book/film references - I am a bit of a fan girl). The bravery we need is real and helps us to face the big stuff. I could list a million people in the bible who God has filled with courage to achieve the kind of things others would think are impossible. Just look at Noah, or Mary, or Esther.
So what does it mean for us, in the 21st century, to be brave? We might not have Orcs and Elves (sorry!) , but we all have our own battles to face. There are, or will be, people in your life who you struggle with. There might be things you feel God wants you to do that could be tough, terrifying even. But the Spirit God pours over us doesn't make us afraid. Instead, it is full of power, of love, and of self-control.
With our King, who loves us so, so much, we have the power to stand out, to speak out for what is wrong, to do something about the mess in the world. He gives us the love to share with everyone. You are loved. You are treasured. And people around you deserve a chance to know that love, no matter what they've done, no matter who they are. Furthermore, we have a spirit of self-control. It's that ability not to do what everyone else does when you know it's wrong, but to remain wholeheartedly in the truth that Jesus is the only way. So whom shall we fear? We are made brave.
Prayer
Dear Lord,
Thank you that you are King over all the Earth and you protect me. Thank you that you make me brave. Please help me to have the courage to fight the battles in my life, whatever they are. Please fill me with a spirit of power, love and self control.
Amen
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