‘Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.’

– Christopher Robin to Winnie-the-Pooh

We all can accomplish more than we think we can.  In times of crisis, we draw on our inner courage to be of some help.  When the adrenaline is running, we can overcome obstacles we never thought possible.  The human mind and body are amazing creations – intricately and perfectly designed to come to the rescue when necessary.

However, when we rely entirely on ourselves, our strength and courage wane in comparison to what we can do when we listen to God’s voice and direction to be strong and courageous.  Sounds so easy, doesn’t it?  Easier said than done sometimes.

The world teaches that we can do whatever we put our mind to.  We can use our brains, our physical strength and our wherewithal to do great things.   When ego gets in the way and we realize that we are not always capable of doing these things, we easily become discouraged.

Admitting that we need help isn’t easy.  It’s like saying we don’t have the stamina to do things on our own.  It weakens us.

God plants courage into each one of us.  We were perfectly formed in His image and yet imperfect because of our inherited sin.  We need His strength and courage to help us overcome the daily tasks of life.  Without Him, we may be able to accomplish acts of courage, but with Him we can do even greater things.

With the Lord begin your task;
Jesus will direct it.
For his aid and counsel ask;
Jesus will perfect it.
Every morn with Jesus rise,
And when day is ended,
In his name then close your eyes;
Be to him commended.

  THE LUTHERAN HYMNAL