Olivet Discourse
Many will come in my name, saying, 'I am he!' and they will lead many astray. And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. Mark 13:6-7 (ESV)
“C” is for courage. Courage isn’t just bravely facing your enemy on your own. That would be foolish. Courage comes in knowing that our Savior is with us in every situation of life. After all, that is His promise.
When Martin Luther stood before the emperor, he declared, “Here I stand, I can do no other.” He wasn’t drawing strength from himself. He was relying on the assurance of God’s Word—a Word that, he knew, would outlast empires, thrones, and all wicked schemes of men. In another sense of his words, God’s Word was the only place he could stand.
One of the hardest times to have courage is when our conscience rises up as though it is our enemy. Our sin appears to give the conscience a level of ferocity that is sure to do us in. Yet, as John writes, “Whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and He knows everything.” (1 John 3:20) God’s grace silences our conscience giving us a reason to stand up in the courage of faith to exclaim, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.” (1 Timothy 1:15 NKJV)
Holy Spirit, fill me with boldness and courage to face wherever would oppose You and Your reign in my heart. Amen.