Responses

I was reading “A Grace Disguised” by J Sittser, when these words struck a chord..”the experience of loss itself does not have to be the defining moment of our lives. Instead, the defining moment can be our response to the loss.”

As I was reading these words another recent message from a sweet girl came to mind “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua‬ ‭1:9‬)

These words are definitely Not a suggestion. “Have I not commanded you. Do Not Be Afraid.”

Joshua was going to take a land, promised long ago, back from really big and strong people and he had lots to be afraid of! Yet, God commands - Do Not Be Afraid. Why? Not because Joshua was an amazing strong old man with bulging muscles. Not because Israel had a fierce army. Nothing at all to do with the humans involved. All to do with the living God involved. The reason why Joshua could be fearless was because God was going with him wherever he went. God.

And as I read these words about loss, thinking about our losing life, and also pondering on my responses to all of this, I realized that God commands me to be strong. To be courageous. Not because I am strong, amazing or courageous by nature. I have exhausted that little jar a long time ago. No, quite the opposite. He can ask this of me because He is the guarantee. He is the Bank of Courage. He is the Source of Strength. And He is on this journey with me. Or rather, I am on this journey with Him. And that is what gives me strength, that is what helps my response to be Courage and Strength rather than Fear and Cowering and not wanting to go on...

Bella, re-evaluating responses in light of Who God is.