TAKE COURAGE: You Are Not Alone in the Battle

Even the strongest leaders get tired. From Ezra’s public weeping to John the Baptist’s prison-cell doubts, the Bible is full of moments where heroes of the faith needed a boost. This blog post explores why "Taking Courage" is a team sport and how your words of support can help others fulfill their God-given destiny.

C. Atkinson

12/19/20233 min read

“Get up, for it is your duty to tell us how to proceed in setting things straight. We are behind you, so be strong and take action.” — Ezra 10:4 (NLT)

BLESS THE LORD, OH MY SOUL! AND ALL THAT IS WITHIN ME, BLESS HIS HOLY NAME.

It is a truly wonderful thing to give thanks to the Lord, for His mercies endure forever. I thank God for you today and for everything He is doing in your life. As children of God, we have a hope in Christ Jesus that remains standing no matter what struggles we encounter.

Have you been feeling weak or weary lately? The holiday season, in particular, can bring unique challenges that weigh on the spirit. If that is you, take courage. The Lord is your refuge and your strength. Courage is fueled by faith, and faith is simply choosing to believe God’s promises over your current circumstances. Even David had to encourage himself, declaring: “I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living. Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous” (Psalm 27:13-14).

The Strength of the Body

We all have a responsibility to look out for one another. Hebrews 3:13 warns us to encourage each other daily so that no one becomes hardened by sin’s deceit. We aren't just individuals; we are a body, and we need each other to stay faithful to the end.

In Ezra 10, we see a beautiful example of this. Ezra—a priest and teacher whose very name means “help”—was weeping and praying over the unfaithfulness of the people. But he wasn't left to weep alone. A man named Shecaniah stood up and spoke words of hope into the situation. He acknowledged the sin but reminded Ezra that there was still a path to restoration. He told his leader, “We are behind you.”

This reveals a powerful truth: even our leaders need encouragement. Whether it is your Pastor, your manager at work, or a spiritual mentor, your submission and support have a positive impact on their ability to lead.

Even the Greats Need a Lift

Biblical history shows us that even the strongest giants of faith had moments of weariness:

John the Baptist: Jesus called him the greatest born of women, yet while sitting in a dark prison cell, John sent word to Jesus asking, "Are you the one, or should we look for another?" (Matthew 11). He needed a reminder, and he found courage through the report of his disciples.
Moses: He was chosen to lead a nation, but he nearly burned out trying to do it alone. It took his father-in-law, Jethro, stepping in to say, "The burden is too heavy for you" (Exodus 18). Jethro’s advice and encouragement allowed Moses to endure the pressure and fulfill his calling.

A Call to Action

As a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, I encourage you: Take courage, for you are not alone. Make it your purpose this week to be a "Shecaniah" or a "Jethro" to someone else. Take the time to encourage your leaders, your friends, and even the strangers you meet. We all need a helping hand to survive this walk of faith. Most importantly, stay focused on the God-given mission to reach lost souls.

Remember the words of Jesus: “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

A Prayer for Strength

Lord, we thank You for Your faithfulness. If it had not been for You on our side, where would we be? We thank You for being the Author and Finisher of our faith. We humble ourselves today, seeking Your face and turning from anything that displeases You. Wash us and search our hearts. Thank You for being a Father we can always run to with a broken heart, knowing You will restore our joy. Give us wisdom and help us to trust You with all our hearts, leaning not on our own understanding. Keep our eyes fixed on the Cross. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.