January 16 - Everyday Courage.

Joshua 1:9
"Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage: be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whitersoever thou goest.”
 
There’s courage…
then there’s an Everyday Courage that only comes from the Lord.
How can we obtain this Everyday Courage?
 
Get involved.
Esther 4:16
Esther knew the risk she was taking, but she didn’t let that stop her… and neither should we. Has God placed something on your heart that seems impossible?
​Have courage, and get involved.
 
Don’t conform.
Daniel 3:18
The three Hebrew men didn’t conform to the king’s demand, despite Nebuchadnezzar’s threat of the burning fiery furnace. Many so-called Christians today have compromised their convictions, their beliefs, their doctrines, and even their Bible. The modern religion creeping in today is nothing more than a distraction from the Truth. Refuse to compromise despite the flames around you. Have courage, and don’t conform.
 
Do right under pressure.
Daniel 6:10
Daniel prayed even when the law was signed forbidding it. He didn’t hide. He boldly continued to do what was right. Have courage, and do right even when you find yourself under pressure.
 
Stand against sin.
Matthew 14:3-4
John the Baptist called Herod out for the sin he was committing. Despite what may be legal and politically correct in our world today, we as Christians should not tolerate sin. We should practice being separate and holy. Have courage, and stand against sin.
 
When put together, these four simple things can give us an Everyday Courage to fight against the wiles of the devil. In Ephesians 6:10-18 we are given the descriptions of the armour God has provided us to assist us in the fight. All but one is defensive. We must only go on the offensive attack when armed with Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. It is quick and powerful. It is sharper than any two-edged sword. It can pierce even unto the dividing asunder of the soul and spirit. It gives us discernment of the thoughts and intents of our heart. See Hebrews 4:12.
 
Determine to have Everyday Courage to stand for the Lord in 2016.
 
Bible Reading:
Genesis 31-32  |  John 16  |  Proverbs 16