Courage Under Fire

Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrifed; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

This verse, one I’ve read a hundred times, popped out at me a couple of nights ago as I was flipping through my Bible. At first, I was sad when I read it; I haven’t felt strong or courageous in a while.

I’m leaving in two days to serve the people of the Dominican Republic with twenty-five college students. I’ve seen everyone’s excitement for the trip swell as our departure date has slowly creeped up on us, wishing I felt the same way. Instead, I’ve felt so inadequate as a leader, unsure of myself as a communicator, uneasy being an example, and hoping for more time to feel “ready” to go, even though we’ve been training for this trip, praying for this trip, and hoping and dreaming for this trip for the last six months.

But God has been reminding me this week that I have a role to play. I might never even realize what that role is. He also reminded me to just be Lisa. As a “leader,” I think that I need to be a certain way, communicate like this person, or lead like that person, when God wants to use me, exactly where I am and who I am—strengths, weaknesses, and all.

This week as I’ve been receiving God’s truth, prayer, and encouragement, the excitement has finally started to sink in. I’m going to the Dominican Republic! How awesome! And God’s going to use me…to communicate clearly, to lead well, to be a friend, to reflect Jesus, to be. What a privilege...and definitely something to be excited about!

I’m ready for this adventure, Lord. Help me to be strong and courageous.