Originally published Thursday, 05 March 2015.
When Paul and I were living the nightmare of infertility and pregnancy loss , I memorized Joshua 1:9. It’s one of my absolute favorite verses.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
-Joshua 1:9
After putting those years behind us and reaping joy from our tears, I quickly realized that I wasn’t finished fighting battles. New issues continually arise and we will be forced to suit up for combat all over again. We live a cycle of joy and pain. It’s a wheel that never stops spinning, and courage is a must.
I’m big on memorizing scripture and then quoting it in the face of adversity. What I’ve learned overtime is that when I’m having a panic-filled, anxiety-ridden moment, I’m not always able to think straight enough to retrieve the Word from the files in my memory. However, there are a few that I’ve quoted so often, that they remain burned on my brain. Joshua 1:9 is one of those scriptures. It applies to all different kinds of circumstances. No matter what it is that might be trying to rob my peace, I say it over and over again. It’s not a quick fix. It’s not as if I speak the words and everything that has caused me angst disappears. However, I choose to believe that God is working in my situation, I choose to believe His Word paves a path for me, and I choose to believe it will lead me to a place of shelter from the storm. So much of life is about choice and perspective.
I’m praying for courage, because I have some opportunities that require bravery that can only come from God. And I don’t know what cycle of life you are in right now, but I have some encouragement for you: If you’re in a season of pain, I want you to know that joy can coincide. And when you throw courage into the mix, then look out! Nothing can hold you back! Our greatest strength rises from our deepest pain. So, friend, choose courage. Fight your war with the Word of God. Choose to believe there is joy somewhere inside. There is hope.
I need some courage, and I bet you need it too, so let’s pray for each other.
Be blessed and have a wonderful weekend!
Love,
Jennifer
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