Righteous Courage
Jacob encountered a crisis on his life’s journey whenhe heard his estranged brother was coming towardhim with 400 men. Jacob was afraid, but knew wherecourage could be found – he wrestled all night to gain My favor and obtained it! When I walked the earth, Pilate needed courage tomake a righteous decision concerning Me as I wasbrought before his judgment seat – but he fearedthe people and the loss of his position, so claimed hewould just refrain from making a personal choice bywashing his hands of the matter. After My death, Joseph of Arimathea, a prominentmember of the Religious Council that had condemned Me (but who himself did not – because he believedin My Kingdom) gathered courage in the face of hisreligious brethren and the public opinion thatsurrounded him. He made his decision, went before Pilate, begged for My body, and by this action statedbefore them all – I will publicly identify with Himwhether He is alive or dead! Even so, in the present time as we are confronted withdecisions, will we choose the path of least resistance – attempting to wash our hands of the matter with nochoice, or draw courage from God to follow principlesin alignment with His Righteousness? (Prayer) Oh Lord, Fill us with Your Courage to stand in our dayas Daniel with his companions, Joseph, David, Esther,and many others along with the Prophets and Apostlesstood in their days for Your Righteousness! Deuteronomy 31:6Be strong and of good courage,do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God,He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”