We’ve been exploring practical ways to increase our courage in the Lord. We see in 1 Samuel 30:1-7 how King David strengthened himself after a devastating attack by the Amalekites. David first got alone and “strengthened himself in the Lord his God” (1 Sam 30:6 ESV). He sought God’s wisdom. Then he courageously obeyed God’s …
Category Archives: Partner Ministries
22420.5 Woman of Valor
Who can find a woman of valor? (Proverbs 31:10 Orthodox Jewish Bible). The dictionary defines valor as “courage and bravery in the face of danger.” But the Hebrew word for valor, chayil, is much more vibrant, depicting a “warrior, army, strength, honor, even wealth.” Chayil, is actually a military term. So I was surprised to …
22420.4 Becoming Like a Child Takes Courage
Sometimes God provides a deep spiritual lesson we least expect it. While reading through Matthew’s Gospel one day, I was struck by Jesus’s words to His disciples: Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3 NIV). The word used in this verse for change means …
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22420.3 Laughing at Our Fears
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come (Proverbs 31:25). One of the things I love most about my husband David is the way he would always encourage our children to laugh at the very things they were afraid of. He referred to their fears as “fret flies.” …
22420.2 Mighty Man of Valor
Courage comes in all kinds of packages. Perhaps you’re in the military. Or you’re a first responder. Or a caregiver holding the hands of the dying. Or you’re faithfully caring for your children—pouring life into the next generation. People show courage in many different ways. But do you ever feel like you’re not strong enough …
22420.1 Love Makes Us Brave
I agree with Indiana Jones: “I hate snakes!” Maybe some of you share my distaste these slithery reptiles. A while back when cleaning our garage, our son found a small copperhead hiding behind a box. My first response was “Yikes! Go hide!” My next thought was, “Go get ‘em!” I grabbed the nearest gardening tool, …
22752.0 Why Did I Say That?
Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. The good …
22752.1 Charming and Pouting
I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere men? (1 Corinthians 3:2-3) Do you love being around charming people? Have …
22752.2 Are You a Grudge Slave?
For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. (Matthew 6:14-15) Have you ever had a grudge against someone only to find out later they didn’t even know you were mad at …
22752.3 Why Should I Forgive?
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 4:31-32) Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those …