“One isn’t necessarily born with courage, but one is born with potential.  Without courage, we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency.  We can’t be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest.”  Maya Angelou

What is holding you back from living up to your potential?

The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men who had had no special training. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus.  (Acts 4:13; NLT)

Continuing with the list of character traits of The Compassionate Samurai from Brian Klemmer’s latest book, we start 2009 with the next to last trait on his list, courage or boldness.  Webster defines courage as the attitude of facing and dealing with anything recognized as dangerous, difficult or painful, instead of withdrawing from it.  Klemmer points out that to do something when you’re not aware of the risks is not courage.  Courage is acting in the face of fear.  He writes, “If you have fear, welcome to the human race.  The minute you care, there’s fear.  That’s okay.  It’s natural.”

We all have fears.  The key to success in life, the key to being all that God calls you to be in this new year, is to realize that much of that stuff that we’re afraid of is only the fruit of our overactive imagination painting the worst possible scenario.  I’m sure you’ve all heard the acronym FEAR–false evidence appearing real.  The trick is to face those fears head-on and do what you have to do–even if you are afraid.

You can’t spend your life trying to shelter yourself from every single hurt that may come your way.  “The person who tries and keeps on trying will eventually get to where (s)he’s going.”  We all need to move on from the lowest point in life–mediocrity.  “Mr and Mrs. Average can be defined as the best of the worst and the worst of the best.”  We aspire to better in this new year, and believe that you do too.  You certainly have the God-given potential to excel in 2009.

Prayer Power
Lord, we are forever grateful for the courage You demonstrated to make the ultimate sacrifice for each and every one of us.  I’m sure our imaginations can’t even begin to comprehend the price You paid.

Link of the Day
How to Overcome the Fear of Failure

Blessings to you as you purposely face one of your fears head on this week and step out of your comfort zone.

Previous in Series-/ /-Next in Series