“They encourage each other in evil plans” Ps 64:5
A group of rowdy teenagers walk down a street of parked cars. One gets overly rambunctious and keys a car. After a while another kicks off the side mirror of a second car. A few moments later another breaks the window of a third car and the group loots the contents. That’s how courage is generated.
“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.” Ps 31:24
A family watches a program about child abuse. The kids look at their parents. Mom is weeping. Dad is fuming. The next day in school the kids talk to their classmates about child abuse. They actually have a friend who is beaten by his step dad. A dozen kids rally. With a little assistance they create a society to help abused children, and the frustrated parents who inflict abuse. That’s how courage is generated.
“The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.” Judges 6:12
The angel of the Lord appears to cowering Gideon. He speaks a new identity. “Mighty Man of Valor!” Gideon gets a courage boost. He then rallies people to fight the teaming minions. Courage rises! God trims down the men to 300. They courageously launch a night attack. Other formerly timid Israelites who have been hiding learn of the victory. They join the battle making the victory complete. That’s how courage is generated.
I saw this example of courage generation in one of my churches.
Man #1, Joseph, courageously followed his dreams and inspired others.
Joseph was working at a cabinet shop but he had always wanted to be an artist. His frustration and courage grew together. Joseph started a frame shop where he could study and practice art on the side. He found a new peace and satisfaction as he pursued his art. His skills improved and he has shown well!
Man #2 in our congregation saw his example. Frank was a science teacher in a public school. He was frustrated with the arrangement. Taking some hand-me-down courage, he quit his job and went to teach at a new Christian school. He found satisfaction following his convictions and influencing young people eager for higher values.
Man #3 picking up on the courage of others, gave up a struggling storefront business and started painting homes. Less headaches, more flexibility of time and greater income. Bob’s desire for excellence was met in freshly painted homes.
Man #4 was frustrated with work at his fire department. Scott quit, went to work part time for a department in a neighboring city and started a custom water features business. He was free to pursue creative expression. And what he created was overflowingly lovely. That’s how courage is generated!
WITNESSING COURAGE GENERATES
COURAGEOUS WITNESSING
Most believers need just a little tipping-point courage to break their silence about Jesus. One martyr inspires courage in many. “And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers here have gained confidence and boldly speak God’s message without fear.” Phil 1:14
Our Master Jesus is the ultimate courage generator! When we consider his bold courage at the cross we gain boldness as well! See Hebrews 12:3. After all, That’s how courage is generated!
How have you seen courage multiply for Kingdom good?
Are you a courage generator?
What courageous action can you take today?
Preparing the Landing Strip!
Steven C Johnson
LandingStripEnterprises.Com
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