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Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
THE COURAGE TO STAND FOR CHRIST
Joshua 1:9, Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”
Joshua was entrusted with the monumental task of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, a land filled with unknown dangers, formidable enemies, and daunting challenges.
God knew the weight of the responsibility on Joshua’s shoulders, which is why He commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous.
The promise of God’s presence was Joshua’s source of strength and courage, not his own abilities or resources.
Just as Joshua was called to stand firm and trust in God’s promises, we too are called to stand courageously for Christ in a world that often opposes and challenges Christian values.
In every challenge, whether it’s opposition, ridicule, or pressure to conform, the same God who was with Joshua is with us, offering His unfailing presence and strength.
Reflect on the moments in your life where you’ve felt hesitant to stand up for your faith.
It might be at work, with friends, on social media, or even within your own family.
These are the places where your courage is tested.
It’s natural to fear rejection, judgment, or isolation, but remember that you’re never alone in these battles.
Just as God assured Joshua of His presence, He assures you today.
When you rely on God’s presence and promises, you can face these challenges with a courage that is rooted not in yourself but in His power.
Your courage to stand for Christ, even in the face of adversity, becomes a testimony to others of God’s faithfulness and strength.
PRAYER
Lord, in a world where it’s often easier to blend in than to stand out, I ask for the courage to stand boldly for You. Help me to remember that You are always with me, just as You were with Joshua. Strengthen my heart so that I may face challenges without fear, knowing that You are my guide and protector. May my life reflect Your truth and love, and may my courage inspire others to do the same. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
ASSIGNMENT
This week, actively seek out opportunities to exercise your courage in your faith.
Perhaps it’s having a meaningful conversation with a friend about your beliefs, sharing your testimony on social media, or standing firm in your convictions when faced with peer pressure.
Whatever the challenge, remember to lean on God’s strength, not your own.
Take this step of faith, trusting that God will empower you to be bold and courageous.
Consider the story of David and Goliath, where a young shepherd boy faced a giant warrior with nothing but a sling, five stones, and unwavering faith in God.
David’s courage didn’t stem from his own might or experience; it came from his deep trust in God.
He knew that the battle belonged to the Lord, and with that confidence, he confronted Goliath and won a victory that seemed impossible to others.
Like David, you too can face the giants in your life—whether they are fears, challenges, or temptations—with the confidence that God is on your side.
When you trust in God’s strength rather than your own, you can stand boldly and watch as He works through you to accomplish great things.
TUESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Lee Cronan
June Cronan’s Sister
Sandra Graham – Much Prayer Needed
Amy Garner’s Mom
Daniel Cooper’s Mother
Darlene Wiggins
David Burnette
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donnie Butler’s Dad
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ed Mays
Ellen Boyd
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Freddie May’s Mom
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gail Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christin
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Marynell Ford
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Sandra Graham
Sarah Parker
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Graham (Sandra’s Husband)
Tom Witcher