At different times different themes seem to appear in my life. Right now I am surrounded by people who are called to be braver than they ever imagined.

The dictionary defines brave as: ready to face or endure danger or pain; showing courage.

None of the people I’m thinking of think of themselves as brave. In fact they would probably tell you they are in a place of uncertainty, pain, or fear. Yet they are walking the paths with a courage that humbles and challenges me. Maybe it’s the mom who’s walking through experimental cancer treatment with her oldest–a treatment that requires a long separation from her family and is filled with its own uncertainty. Yet her posts are filled with the belief and certainty that God is bigger than cancer and any other problems they could face. And in the reading and praying, I am challenged.

Then there’s someone close to me who is going through huge personal challenges on two fronts. She’s under attack in a real way on both. Yet, she’s making the hard choices. Choosing to do something. Feeling her way along on a wing and a prayer. Such courage in the face of uncertainty. The unknown. Fear. Challenges.

Or there’s my brave six year old…I’m typing this from a room where we’ll spend the night so she can have an unnecessary test. It’s not painful, just weird. Yet she’s approached it with such stoic grace. Don’t you love it when your children are the ones who challenge you?

What are you facing right now? Is it hard? Something where you are being called to be brave? To step out onto the raging waters and follow God in a way that is oh so scary? Is He asking you to really believe and trust Him? Is He asking you to take a hold of His promises and apply them to your life in a new way? If so, may I just encourage you with a few truths.

• God never changes. Malachi 3:6
• He never lies. Numbers 23:19 and Hebrews 6:18
• He will never leave us or forsake us. Never. Deuteronomy 31:6 and Hebrews 13:5
• When you walk through the fire, He will be with you. Isaiah 43:2
• There is no place you can run from Him. Psalm 139:7-12

I wish I could share a cup of coffee or tea with you, hear your story, and pray with you. But know that these truths are sure, and He will give you the courage you need to make it through whatever trial exists in your life right now. He is faithful. Cling to that. Take courage. And be brave.