“A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for.” (William G.T. Shedd)

One of my all time favorite movies is “The Wizard of Oz.” My wife tells me all the time that it isn’t, but I constantly remind her that it is. For me, it is a cinematic masterpiece. It’s a pioneer in the world of film. It is nothing short of brilliant.

Consequently, one of my favorite characters within the story is the cowardly lion who is nothing short of appropriately named. He undoubtedly lives up to the moniker by which he is identified. Come to think of it, I see a lot of myself in him…the desire to be a king who often lacks the intestinal fortitude to step up & be just that. Fearful of what life is going to throw at him & timid in his response to it. Though there comes a point in the story line where he must make a choice to be courageous.

Courage seems an ambiguous, intangible concept to lay hold of, doesn’t it? When faced with life’s challenges, crossroads, tribulations, or even decisions, the Lord wants us to face them with courage. No matter if the challenge is larger than what we’ve worked out in our life already passed or not. No matter if we feel we have the internal or external ability to overcome the challenge or not. The Lord wants us to face them with courage.

“We are God’s house, if we keep courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ.” (Hebrews 3:6 NLT)

“In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NASB)

“Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14 NLT)

“Be strong and courageous, all you who put you hope in the Lord!” (Psalm 31:24 NLT)

“Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous.” (Psalm 27:14 NLT)

“Be strong and courageous! …For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT)

Time and time again, the Lord reminds us to be courageous. It’s a unique courage, though, not one from ourselves. We cannot be courageous in our own abilities, our own strengths, our own worth, or anything else in us when we are setting sail into unknown waters. We MUST rely on HIS courage INSIDE of us to help us get our boat out of the harbor. We do not know the what is out there, but He does.

It is God who gives us courage to set sail into unknown waters. He will help us to navigate out of the harbor into the seas with courage. Where our comfort zone feels the best place for us to tie to the dock or drop anchor, God calls us out into the open waters of His will, appeals to our sense of adventure, promises to travel alongside us, & instills within us HIS courage.

I must say, that is difficult almost every time. I want to stay in the harbor where it is safe, but I must take courage…His courage inside me…pull up the anchor, & set sail with Him wherever He should direct my ship.