Encourage Me: Courage

“It takes a lot of courage to release the familiar and seemingly secure to embrace the new. But there is no real security in what is no longer meaningful. There is more security in the adventurous and exciting for in movement there is life, and in change there is power.” (Alan Cohen)

I am not a fan of change. I am an individual of habits (and routines) that doesn’t care to step too far outside of my comfort zone. Many people enjoy the scariness of a new adventure like traveling across the USA in a recreational vehicle (RV) or a motorhome. I think it gives people like this a thrill of conquering the unknown. I’d rather be bored with something I consider safe and familiar (like binge watching my favorite sitcom with our three Chihuahuas).

I recently heard a wonderful quote from the Christmas movie, “Holiday Throwback” (which was a fantastic time travel movie you should watch). It went like this: ”If nothing changes, nothing changes.” There have been events in my life that God allowed for opportunities for growth (and needed change). There was no choice but for me to come to agreement with the alternate life path my heavenly Father had planned for me because it was going to happen (whether I liked it, or not).

I could choose a positive attitude (which would make the situation somewhat tolerable for me), or I could go to a negative place and make me (and those around me) upset and worse off. These threatening changes to the certainty of my comfort zone always turn out to be exactly what I needed in the end. (God always knows best.) My heavenly Father knows exactly when it’s time for me to grow in my development as His cherished child.

Just as God gave the new leader, Joshua, encouragement in directing the Israelites (after the death of Moses, the previous person in charge), Joshua 1:9 (VOICE) is a promise that is also for you in the midst of all the challenges (and changes) you face in your world today. Be strong and courageous. Never be afraid or discouraged because I am your God, the Eternal One, and I will remain with you wherever you go. Don’t allow Satan’s lies to become a reality in your life because you are never alone. There is always divine guidance if you only ask for it (in prayer).[i]