You Have It!

TOPIC: Courage

SCRIPTURE: "...there came over to David in the stronghold in the wilderness, mighty men of VALOR, men trained for war, who could handle shield and spear, and whose faces were like the faces of lions, and they were as swift as the gazelles on the mountains."
(I Chronicles 12:8)

OBSERVATION: From my reading today I noticed something that was repeated over and over again. In verses 1 & 4 we read the words. "the mighty men" in verses 8, 21, & 25 it reads, "might men of VALOR". Later in verses 28 & 30 it reads "mighty of VALOR" and "men of VALOR"
We see with God's help that David was able to surround himself with great warriors. We see their qualities all throughout this chapter:
1.) Continually perfected their skills
(with bow, sling, and spear 12:2,8,24,33)
2.) Mentally tough and determined
("fierce as lions" 12:8)
3.) Physically in shape
("as swift as deer" 12:8)
4.) Dedicated to serving God and David
( "with an undivided heart to make David King" 12:33;38)

APPLICATION: Valor = courage, especially that shown in war or battle
Courage = the ability to face danger, difficulty, uncertainty, or pain without being overcome by fear or being deflected from a chosen course of action. As I read this definition of courage my mind went straight to Joshua chapter 1. The Lord spoke to Joshua and said:
1.) "Be strong and courageous" (v.6)
2.) "Only be strong and very courageous" (v.7)
3.) "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! DO NOT tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." (v.9)

Remember, "God has NOT given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power and love and self-discipline." (2 Tim.1:7)

Make the choice to believe God. He has given you EVERYTHING you need (2 Peter 1:3) to make it through any and every challenge. You simple need to use what HE has already given you.

So
BE
COURAGEOUS!

PRAYER: Father God, Help me to live in this reality, that you truly have ALREADY provided everything I need for any and every circumstance.
You're so awesome!!!
Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!