Be Strong and Very Courageous

Throughout different crises in our lives, we face the unknown with little between ourselves and a rocky ravine below. We feel out there, exposed, and aware of our human limitations. The comforting words of God come to us in such times: "Do not be afraid or dismayed, for I am with you." These are the words of presence which prepare us for the next message: "Be strong and very courageous." We realize that the courage and strength that we draw upon is not from ourselves, but from God. This formula of encouragement becomes a formula of faith. The words of encouragement in the dark times do more than pull us through the crisis; the words and realization of God’s presence help our faith grow. During the difficult times, the words of encouragement help us through the pain. After the difficult times are over and we look back, the memory of that time and those words of encouragement become another testimony of our faith. This is the story of our personal moments when God speaks to us: "Be strong and very courageous."

But what about those times when we are part of a bigger picture? There are times when we, as part of a group, are faced with new tasks and challenges. We have the sense that God is leading us to new places as a people. One danger is that we will follow self‑appointed leaders who have their own agendas. But what do we really need? We need leaders who recognize their own human limitations and seek God's presence and guidance. We need leaders who will live with the mind of Christ and follow Jesus' example in all that they say and do. But most of all, we need leaders who walk through the corridors of controversy, capable of discernment, wisdom, and courage in leading people to follow God in their own place and time.