Courage in a crisis

June 26, 7:28 AMLong Island Christian Living ExaminerKeysha Benedetto

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     When navigating a crisis we are often told that God will see us through. We have faith but it is often affected by our emotions. Believers find themselves asking the Lord to fill in the gap with his mercy and grace. Our mantra becomes "...Lord I believe; help thou mine unbelief" (Mark 9:24 KJV). Yet , do you know that you already have the ability to face any circumstance with courage? The secret is actually in your perception. You can transform the experience of your circumstances by "the renewing of your mind." (Romans 12:2).

       God is not only with you, His Spirit is also a part of your consciousness (John 14:16, 14 26). This provides with you with grace (divine power). Additionally, this presence develops your character by cultivating the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Galatians 5:22). With these tools our minds become open to learning from bad experiences. In fact, our spirits become fortified against attacks from negative people and forces as well (Ephesians 6:12). 

The scripture is full of optimists who believed God despite obstacles and bleak circumstances. Some like the Apostle Paul, saw purpose in even affliction writing (from a prison cell) that "I am convinced and sure of this thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue...developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you." (Phil 1:6 AMP). There is inspiration in that declaration for every Christian!

       God's purposes may not be revealed but pain can produce progress; relational rifts can provide revelation. And when the truth about ourselves, others or circumstances is made clearer, change is possible. Paul admonished Christians to "learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value..." (Phil 1:10 AMP). Gather pearls of wisdom from distressing situations. To quote a line from a poem I wrote: "For if you can walk through fire without being burned, than you can tell others what you have learned".