Courageous

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7

There is a powerful movie recently released called, "Courageous," which is a kind of call-to-action for fathers.  But the message, and the song of the same name, is a call to each one of us who follows Christ.  As you read some of the words of the Casting Crowns song*, think of it in light of 2 Timothy 1:7, and as it applies to our position as light in a dark world.

We were made to be courageous
We were made to lead the way
We could be the generation
That finally breaks the chains
We were made to be courageous
We were made to be courageous

We were warriors on the front lines
Standing, unafraid
But now we're watchers on the sidelines
While our families slip away

Where are you, men of courage?
You were made for so much more
Let the pounding of our hearts cry
We will serve the Lord

We were made to be courageous
And we're taking back the fight
We were made to be courageous
And it starts with us tonight

The only way we'll ever stand
Is on our knees with lifted hands
Make us courageous
Lord, make us courageous

This is our resolution
Our answer to the call
We will love our wives and children
We refuse to let them fall

We will reignite the passion
That we buried deep inside
May the watchers become warriors
Let the men of God arise

We were made to be courageous
And we're taking back the fight
We were made to be courageous
And it starts with us tonight

In the Fight  God did not give us a timid spirit, yet it is so easy to be a watcher in this culture of political correctness that is hostile to the Christian worldview.  But we are not called to be spectators, standing on the sidelines as our culture crumbles around us.  We are called to be in the fight, salt and light in a lost world.  How can we break free from our timidity and embrace the power, love and self-discipline that is within us?

Stay in Jesus   In the American culture, it is dangerously easy to do things on our own.  But Jesus was clear in His teaching of how to live a fruitful life in a world that hates us.  He said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)  If we are to have any hope of accomplishing any Kingdom work in our neighborhoods, workplaces, or schools, we must follow Jesus closely. We cannot make an impact in our culture in our own strength.   If it is not Jesus doing the work through us, it does not count. 

Stand Firm   After giving a preview of things to come in eternity, Paul exhorts us to, ". . . stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."  (I Corinthians 15:58)  Knowing that the sacrifices made here will not be in vain gives us strength and courage to lovingly take a stand for the Truth.  We are called to love, but love does not back down.  Rather, "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." (I Corinthians 13:6-7)  Don't give up! 

Spotlight the Kingdom   As we witness all the evil around us, it is easy to get drawn into a campaign to change the world.  But that is not our role.  God is the One who changes hearts and lives.  We are to live our lives in such a way that those around us are profoundly affected when coming into contact with us.  As we focus on God's Kingdom, He goes about drawing the hearts of those who are being salted by our lives.  It is more of a roundabout change that occurs, not as direct result of us working to change our coworkers, neighbors and friends, but in God working through us. 

Real Change  When we draw on God's power, love and self-discipline in order to answer His calling in our lives, He will work to change the world around us.

As I begin this day, it is my prayer that I will stay true to Jesus and the principles He has taught me.

Where have I compromised God's teachings in my life?

How have I allowed the world around me to influence the way I think, act or speak?  Am I willing to be courageous in this area?


 
*lyrics for Courageous from  http://www.newreleasetuesday.com/article.php?article_id=683