Brave

Brave.

We’ve all been brave during these past several weeks. We’ve faced the unknown with our ministries and our families. We’ve adjusted our plans on the fly, many times over. We’ve navigated difficult conversations with family and strangers alike as we’ve offered all we have – Jesus. Yes, we’ve been brave.

But this doesn’t look like the heroic princess plot that I’ve seen on the big screen. It’s been messy. My knees are bloody and my face is sweaty. I’ve stumbled over my words and caused hurt when I’ve tried to bring healing. I surely don’t feel like the creative and witty Merida or Rapunzel who find a way to make their way against all odds. I don’t hear epic music in the background of my life. And it is in times like these, when I’m feeling less-than, that the Lord often reminds me of my name’s meaning. Although it translates as “warrior maiden,” that most recent blow to my heart appears to convince the warrior within to hide in the shadows of hesitation. Or is she?

Have I not commanded you?

Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged,

for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

This scripture causes me to wonder if bravery isn’t as much a character trait as it is a decision. The Lord begins with a question to remind of us of his earlier commands to be strong and courageous, and to not be afraid or discouraged – two things to be and two things not to be. As daughters of the Most High, we must decide to follow our Father’s commands. Then, because He is a loving Father, He follows it immediately with a promise that He will be with us wherever we go. He doesn’t leave us alone; His presence gives us courage and His hand gives us strength we don’t possess on our own.

I don’t have to be brave on my own.

The warrior within me is actually the Warrior in me. It is by His strength that I can do all things (Philippians 4:13). He is the One who shows me the way through. So when I am hesitant, I remind myself of His command-with-a-promise and I decide to put on my armor. I don’t need epic music in the background of my life to spur me on. Instead I hear the words of truth that He sings over me. When I face the unknown and have difficult conversations, I can trust the One who leads me and speaks words of truth. He fights with me. He fights for me. He is with me. He is with you. And no one is fighting for us harder or cheering us on louder than our loving Father. He wants you to know that you are not alone, you are equipped, you are brave, and…

You are adored.