Courage (2)

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"...Act with courage..."
2 Chronicles 19:11

When it comes to acting with courage you'll notice:

( 1) Courage usually involves getting it wrong before you get it right. It's easy to be brave where you're strong; it's much more difficult where you're weak. That's when you need courage most. General Omar Bradley remarked, 'Bravery is the capacity to perform properly, even when scared half to death.' We mistakenly believe that learning is passive, that we learn by reading a book or listening to a speaker. No, the learning process is summarised in these five steps: 1.Observe. 2.Act. 3. Evaluate. 4.Readjust. 5.Go back to step two.

(2) Courage always takes the 'high road'. Jesus said, 'If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also' (Matthew 5:39 NIV). Dr. James B. Mooneyham writes, 'When we keep score of wrongs committed against us, we reveal a lack of maturity. Theodore Roosevelt once said, "The most important single ingredient in the formula of success, is knowing how to get along with people." Those who do not forgive are persons who have not yet learned this truth, and they are usually unsuccessful people. If you wish to improve this area of your life, here are some things that should help. First, practice forgiving. Second, think good thoughts of those persons; it's difficult to have hostile feelings toward one in whom you see good. Finally, let people know through your actions that you can forgive and forget. This will gain respect for you. Remember this: committing an injury puts you below your enemy; taking revenge makes you even with him; forgiving him sets you above.'

Used with permission from UCB Word for Today. Free issues are available here for the UK and Republic of Ireland.