THE WORD FOR THURSDAY



Today's word came from a good friend from high school  ~ way back in the last century.    We shared the same experience of losing our fathers during our childhood.  Speaking of fortitude  ~ especially our mothers to endure not only that loss, but raising children alone.  This has been one of those words I have done a great deal of pondering over.  The definition gives some insight, but not enough



While pondering, I remembered the story from my hiking days when I fell at the bottom of the Grand Canyon and badly sprained my ankle (it still bothers me today).



When the guide told me they could get me out of there, but the helicopter charge would be $2000, I raked up the fortitude to walk back to my ride out.  (Everything has a price---for that much money I can overcome a lot of adversity and pain).  It took a lot of courage at times to follow those guys around all those years on some wonderful adventures.  They are still seeking danger--I retired from the thrill seeker crew.  

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I also remembered my step father's unexpected (well we all can expect to die, but usually we have some warning) death.  My mom and Bill were on a trip to Florida when he suddenly died in route.  I had to fly to Mississippi to pick Momma up and bring her home.  I distinctly remember my prayer, in route,  asking God to give me the courage and strength to be by Momma's side in the days to come and to be strong.  I am certain I told God I could not do it without His help.  He provided all I needed and so much more in the months and years to come.  Bill took wonderful care of Momma and it fell to her children to step up and take over.  It was a trying period.  

As I was researching this, I found this definition ~ courage of soul.  I like that!  "Fear not" is found numerous times in The Word.  God instructs us to Fear not AND provides us the courage to overcome our fear.  Courage is the opposite of fear.  Every instance where God instructs us to fear not, there follows a reason to have courage.  That reason is God Himself.  Fortitude is courage and the faithful provider of that courage is God.  God does not want us to live in the spirit of fear, but tells us over and over "Fear Not".  If we are not living in fear, it stands to reason we must be living in the opposite spirit---that of courage.  He would not tell us to fear not, if He did not intend to provide us the courage to do so.  God is our reason we can rest in the assurance of courage of soul.

"Be strong and courageous.
Do not be afraid or terrified because of them,
for The Lord Your God goes with you;
He will never leave nor forsake you."
Deuteronomy 31:6



6 comments

  1. I'd say you've shown lots of fortitude over the years, Lulu. Thanks for reminding us that God will always give us the courage we need to face any situation.
    Blessings!

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  2. I love these words I have been sent, Martha. Very stimulating for writing!
    Blessings!

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  3. There are times ... when God gives us the strength to carry on ...

    God bless.

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  4. courage of soul. fear not.

    what beautiful, powerful gifts God continues to give us through His Spirit.

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Your comments keep my writing and often cause me to think. A written form of a hug or a pat on the back and an occasional slap into reality---I treasure them all!