THE FOUR BLESSINGS OF COURAGE
-by Dr. John Tetsola

And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the LORD hath sworn unto their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it.

Deuteronomy 31:7

Whenever you see significant progression in an organization, ministry or church, it is because the leader made courageous decisions. However, a leadership position doesn’t give a person courage, but courage can give them a leadership position. As you approach tough decisions in ministry as a leader, recognize these four blessings of courage:

• First, understand that courage begins with an inward battle. Courage isn’t an absence of fear. It is doing what you are afraid to do.

• Secondly, understand that courage is making things right, not just smoothing them over. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

• Thirdly, understand that courage in a leader inspires commitment from followers. Courage is contagious. Billy Graham once said, “When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are stiffened.” Courage in a leader inspires.

• Finally, understand that a leader’s life expands in direct proportion to his courage. Roman historian Tacitus said, “The desire for safety stands against every great and noble enterprise.” Courage opens doors, and that is one of its most wonderful benefits.