There is a courage which is supernatural. While we can reach inside to find internal courage, it is sometimes necessary to go beyond – to find something deeper. One poignant example is Jesus’ follower Stephen as he is being stoned for telling the truth.
Stephen was a follower filled with faith and the Holy Spirit (Acts 6). He was “full of grace and power” and was performing “great wonders and signs among the people.” He was articulate in the truth and ways of God. Indispensable, right? Not only did God finish His earthly purpose for Stephen, he died being stoned by angry Jews. By Paul’s own words he approvingly stood and watched as Stephen was martyred (Acts 22:20).
While we may or may not give the ultimate sacrifice of being physically martyred, if we desire to live godly in in Christ Jesus we will be persecuted. (2 Timothy 3:12) Boom.
Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would be there to carry us through whatever we must suffer. Perhaps these words will strengthen your courage today, as much as it does ours.
“These things I have spoken to you in (heart illustrations); an hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in (demonstrative parables), but will tell you (freely) of the Father. In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I will request of the Father on your behalf; for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came forth from the Father. I came forth from the Father and have come into the world; I am leaving the world again and going to the Father.”
His disciples said, “Yes! now You are speaking plainly and are not using a figure of speech. Now we know that You know all things, and have no need for anyone to question You; by this we believe that You came from God.” Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered, each to his own home, and to leave Me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me.
These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” – John 16:25-33
Take courage friend – be strong in the Lord and the strength of His might.
We WILL overcome!
Dave and Burnadette