Tuesday: Forgiveness and Consequences: Navigating Sin's Aftermath

Week 9:  Courage to Change

BIG IDEA:  We can’t control much in this life. But we can control whether we are right with the KING OF KINGS.  

Scripture: James 1:5  

"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

2 Samuel 19:7  

"Now therefore arise, go out and speak kindly to your servants, for I swear by the Lord, if you do not go, not a man will stay with you this night, and this will be worse for you than all the evil that has come upon you from your youth until now."

Reflection: Joab clearly defied David’s orders by killing Absalom. And he was completely in the wrong for defying the king’s order. But in his admonishment to David in this passage, there was some truth that the grieving king needed to hear. Joab's words to David were a call to action, urging him to step into his role with leadership and presence, despite his personal grief. This exemplifies the courage needed to face situations where action is possible and necessary. Similarly in the New Testament, James assures us that God generously provides wisdom, empowering us to make changes where we can influence outcomes.

Often the hardest part of change is overcoming the fear and negative feelings that accompany uncertainty. But by faith, God's promise to provide wisdom replaces hesitation with clarity. Consider areas in your life where you may have hesitated to act. Pray for courage and wisdom to take a bold step toward change, trusting in God's provision.

Prayer prompt: Lord, give me the courage to change what I can. Help me to see where action is needed and grant me boldness and wisdom in those areas. Amen.