According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, fortitude is “strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage”. It is having determination, the firm and unwavering adherence to a purpose. It is having a tolerance, the capacity to endure what is difficult or disagreeable without complaining. And, being bold, willing to step out in faith even if means stepping out of your “comfort zone”.
Throughout the Word of God, there are several examples of those who had the fortitude to make the right decisions. For example:
- Joshua and Caleb in the instance of advising Israel to go and possess the land. (Numbers 13:30; 14:6-12)
- Gideon in attacking the Midianites and Amalekites with only three hundred men. (Judges 7:7-23)
- David in the instance of killing Goliath. (1 Samuel 17:32-50)
- Esther is going before the King without being summoned. (Esther 4:8 &16)
In 2 Timothy 2:3 it says, “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” A good soldier in the Army of God is going to have the fortitude it takes to endure and fight the battles he or she faces. Where do we find the fortitude they need? Deuteronomy 31:6 gives a hint, “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” And, in Ephesians 6:10 it says, “be strong in the Lord, and in the power of HIS might.” In Matthew 28:18, Jesus said, “ALL power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” In mark 10:27, Jesus also said, “with men it is impossible, but not with God. For with God ALL things are possible.”
I am so thankful that no matter what the situation or circumstance, Jesus can help me to have the fortitude I need to make righteous decisions…even if that means stepping out in faith and out of my “comfort zone”.
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