It is going to take courage and boldness from you to be a Jesus Follower in this world. It was true when Jesus walked the earth, and it is true now.
Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’
Isaiah 41:10 NKJV
God is with you. When His name is on the tip of your tongue…when you are about to tell someone about His great love. He is right there beside you, smiling so proud of you. So why is it we hesitate?
At some point in our lives, we all had to do something that took courage.
Getting up in front of a crowd to speak. Standing up to a bully. Moving away from home. Asking for a raise. Setting a boundary with a friend or family member. All of these are of equal importance and take courage.
The difference is that we are willing to do these things for ourselves but hesitate to help others.
Agape Love
Agape love is something I speak to the youth about a lot. Selfless, unconditional love. Loving without expecting anything in return. No tit for tat. No feeling hurt when a thank you isn’t given.
Unconditional love.
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8 NKJV
Christ walked this earth being a role model for me and you, even though we were throwing stones. Knowing full well that He was going to die for our sins, to save us. To reconnect us with God. A Sacrifice.
And we get tripped up when we buy a sandwich for a coworker and don’t get a thank you.
Don’t misunderstand me. Politeness and being thankful are important… but we are missing the point.
Jesus helped us when we didn’t deserve it. He showed us great love, knowing some of us were going to be completely ungrateful. No party. No accolades. No, thank you for the sandwich.
But He did it anyway.
It is going to take courage to get out of your own way to help people. It is going to be uncomfortable, but you are never alone. God is right there cheering you on.
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 NIV