Feb 20, 2019
By Ruth Burdick
In January my Sabbath School class studied the book of Joshua, and (boom!) in the first chapter is God’s charge to Joshua, the Israelites, and us today: be bold, strong and courageous. Years ago I had bracketed the first sentence in verse 5 and underlined the last half of the sentence. I had also underlined the four occurrences of “Be strong and courageous” and noted verses 7-9. What a great study for our children to hear and learn early in life! Furthermore, it is a command (vs. 9).
I was four. A wicked thunderstorm was loud, crashing and shaking our old farmhouse. Running to hide under my mom’s desk, I cowered there with debilitating fear. My mother came, drew me into her arms and took me out to our covered porch to a glider. She cuddled me and spoke to me gently as the storm raged all about us. Softly, she told me how the Bible (Psalms) tells us that God’s might and power is greater than the thunder and lightning; that it is only temporary and we need to trust Him through the loud noise and dangers. The storm will pass and the clean, quietness afterward will refresh our souls and offer confidence and courage to meet the next storm in life. How wise and true! Now I love to sit and watch a thunderstorm pass.
My life lesson #1: God uses the storms of our lives to build our courage and recognize our dependence on Him. Know God is real. He calms our fears or takes them away with His peaceful presence (Joshua 1:9).
I was sixteen. Camp Harmony was in full swing. One day I was directly faced with the fact I was a sinner. I recognized my sin and became humbled before man and God, confessing to each my need of forgiveness and a change of lifestyle and attitude. That day God’s spirit gave me a new confidence and joy, an unshakeable trust in God and a peace in knowing I am His eternally (Joshua 1:5b, 9c).
My life lesson #2: Believe, receive salvation, and begin a lasting personal relationship with Jesus. That confidence and assurance bolsters boldness.
I was in my teens. My grandmother was my spiritual mentor as well as my Sabbath School teacher. I came to deeply love the Word of God. One must read it to discover its truths. The cross references, study notes, and concordance became my aids to create my own theme studies to delve into God’s will for my life. It is an exciting journey, but we are warned to be careful and handle the Word of God correctly (Joshua 1:7-8; 2 Timothy 2:15).
My life lesson #3: Study God’s Word regularly. Absorb it into your thoughts and actions. Apply it to life as God guides. Always be prepared to share with others the hope and confidence you have in knowing God personally. Get ready (I Peter 3:15; Joshua 1:2).
I was 18. It was time to move out into the unknown. The college I chose was far away from home and family. However, I specifically chose Milton College because there was a church in town with a church family ready to accept me. No problem there: God provided! The challenge was: how strong was my faith? That first year I was faced with the fact that I had a volatile temper. One night it erupted and I physically hurt someone in anger. I was horrified and ashamed and humbled before my Holy God. Sin was recognized and confessed. Forgiveness was sought and received, and reconciliation was given gloriously. God delivered me from that controlling trait and gave me a deeper love for people that amazes me at times.
My life lesson #4: A believer is a forgiven sinner who continues to conquer sin. Joy is deep and boundless. Experiences enrich our testimony and help us identify with others. Sharing is necessary and needed. Strength evolves.
I was in my twenties. It was my last semester in college, and I signed up for a Psychology course with a new professor. He introduced himself and then asked us a question, “How many of you believe in God?” Of 23 students, two of us raised our hands. I was shocked. It was then I wondered if some were ashamed to stand up for what they believed. The professor then challenged the class to write the first essay on why or why not you believe in God. The other student and I got A’s, though we never did change his mind.
My life lesson #5: Do not be afraid of taking a stand for God. We are not to be ashamed of Christ and are told to speak out and glorify Him. Stand firm in the faith. Courage and strength become boldness for Christ. (I Corinthians 16:13-14; Romans 1:16; Luke 9:26; Ephesians 6:10-17)
Early in my life, prayer became a vital communication link to my God. It is a two-way conversation. It keeps me focused and moving forward. Even thoughts have become prayers that were answered. Be specific. I have prayed for boldness more than once.
My life lesson #6: Be serious about your prayer life. Cultivate it. Prayer is a lifeline for you and others. (Ephesians 6:18-20)
Throughout life I have heard the phrase “practice makes perfect.” I can’t agree with that, but practice does make one better. It is the same with strength, courage, and boldness. They need to be nurtured. As you get stronger in Bible knowledge, and life changes, you gain courage to go beyond your comfort zone. As that occurs, you become bolder to stand firm in sharing with others. Practice thinking about how you can approach people, what questions to ask, how to establish rapport with that person, how to share Christ simply, and the list goes on. Remember God gives the opportunities and it is all about Him. Think about what you might miss if you don’t follow through!
My life lesson #7: Practice boldness. God commands us to become strong and courageous. Enjoy the process! (Joshua 1:7a, 9; Matthew 7:24; Luke 8:21)
