Day 2: The Foundation

Welcome to Day 2!  You can find the other posts in the 31 Days of Brave Series here.

Courage is a big topic right now in self-help circles. I haven't read any of the current offerings, but I hear the buzz about them. Books,speakers,blogs... whether their approach is secular or Christian, it's obvious that they have hit a nerve.  Americans feel insecure.  Times are hard. Things are not the way they used to be. We are left with hard, and potentially costly, choices.  There are no guarantees of success. 

 In circumstances that involve difficulty and risk, what enables us to be brave is our foundation. The foundation for bravery can not be itself. The mere concept of " brave", standing alone like a bird on a pole, will quickly become just another idol in our quest for self-improvement. Like all idols, it will fail us in the end, flying away with our strength when least expect it. Our foundation must be found in the truths found in Scripture. If Christians are firmly rooted in who God is and who He says we are in Christ, and if we hold fast to what He says about His plans for us here on earth and in eternity, we will have what we need to courageously endure!

Psalm 18:30    This God—his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.

Isaiah 41:10     Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Galatians 3:26   For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.

Hebrews 4:16    Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Philippians 1:6   And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

Philippians 4:6-7    Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.