Courage

John Wayne once said, “Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway.”  I find this to be a very accurate definition.  I find that I get scared quite often.  I get sacred every time I have to stand up and speak to an audience.  I get scared on the freeway quite frequently.  I get scared when I see the shape this world is getting in.   I get scared when I get sick wondering what Cindy would do without me (She assures me she would be just fine.  I think she may have plans???).  I used to think being scared was wrong, silly or manly.  I also used to think Christians should have no fear of anything.  I’ve since learned those old thoughts just weren’t true.  As a matter of fact I do not trust anyone who has no fear-they are often reckless and dangerous to be around.  Also, some people act like they have no fear in order to disguise their insecurity or inadequacy.  Some people are just plain crazy and really aren’t afraid of anyone or anything!!  Being scared is just an emotion and you cannot control your emotions-God has given them to you for a reason.  What possible good can come from being scared?  Well, I can think of three things:

1.       Being Scared Enhances Your Attention to Detail.   When you are frightened all your senses go on high alert, you become more cautious, you are more sensitive to your surroundings and potential threats.  Fear also makes you pay attention to what you are doing so that you don’t make a mistake or at least fewer mistakes. 

2.      Being Scared Makes You More Dependent on God.  When you are scared you naturally want to be comforted and reassured that everything will be ok.  Your natural reaction should lead you to seek SUPERNATURAL help, protection, intervention and guidance. 

3.      Being Scared Proves Your Humanity.  Chances are there is some one or a group of people who look up to you.  These folks could be members of your family, friends, classmates or fellow church members.  When you appear to be fearless and never faltering these poor people get the idea that they could never be as strong and fearless as you are and they become discouraged. 

So be scared-it isn’t a bad thing-but you must be courageous.  I believe it to be true, because the Bible teaches it-that “The Lord hates cowardice”.  Read this from Revelation if you don’t believe me:

“He who overcomes will inherit all these things (glories of heaven), and I will be His God and he will be My son.  But for the cowardly (emphasis added) and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”     Revelation 21.7-8

Notice that the cowardly are first in the list of some pretty heinous sinners!  Why this terrible condemnation on those who do not display courage?  The cowardly have no faith in God or His Word.  The cowardly like to be in control of their own lives and will not risk them for the cause of good.  The cowardly have no concern for the welfare of others as long as they can remain safe and unharmed.   The cowardly are content to let others take all the risks and do all the hard work all the while being unashamed to share in the rewards procured by the courageous.

            Courageous folks on the other hand; act in spite of fear, refuse to let others fight their battles for them, realize they have limited control over circumstances and trust their God for their strength.   The words that God spoke to Nun’s son and Moses protégé are applicable to you and me today: 

“Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and courageous!  Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord you God is with you wherever you go.”     Joshua 1.9

  So, Saddle up and get going.  Confront whatever it is that’s scaring you.  Remember, you are not riding alone!