courage — Devotions — Kristine Brown, Author

I love to set goals, work hard, and stay busy. I like being the girl who gets things done. However, all that striving can cause me to place my confidence where it doesn’t belong.

Self-sufficiency can easily become something we rely on for courage and stability. But the problem with relying on our own strength is that it won’t hold up when the storm comes. This month we are exploring valuable truth found in Psalm 107. Today’s verses show us what to do when our courage isn’t enough.

“Some went out on the sea in ships; they were merchants on the mighty waters. They saw the works of the Lord, his wonderful deeds in the deep. For he spoke and stirred up a tempest that lifted high the waves. They mounted up to the heavens and went down to the depths; in their peril their courage melted away. They reeled and staggered like drunkards; they were at their wits’ end. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven.” Psalm 107:23-30 NIV

The depiction of ships being tossed by storms in Psalm 107 reminds me of Luke 8:22-24, when Jesus and the disciples boarded a ship to cross the Sea of Galilee. Some of them were fishermen, no doubt capable of handling challenges a storm could bring. Yet even the experienced group members lost their courage.

As Jesus rested, the disciples rushed to him in panic saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” (Luke 8:24) Just like the merchants in Psalm 107, “their courage melted away.” (Psalm 107:26) We can imagine the seamen as confident men who faced storms all the time. Surely their physical strength helped them handle just about anything.

But even the strongest person can get blown over if he relies on his own strength to save him.

Our own courage can melt away, but God’s strength lasts forever.

When we rely on God for strength, we won’t be blown over when the winds of adversity come. Jesus reminds us where to place our confidence. As we trust Him, He will speak peace to our situation.

Blessings,

Kristine

She entered his home uninvited – this woman carrying an expensive jar of perfume. The host never would’ve permitted her to dine with men of their stature. She knew that, but it didn’t stop her from doing what she came to do.

She pressed on, ignoring the whispers and condescending glances.

Her purpose won out over the what-ifs she felt. With one courageous step after another, she followed her passion. Her most valuable possession poured out that day in an act of overflowing love for her Savior.

Would I have the courage to do something as bold as she did?