Bravery and Fortitude

Have you ever visited another country other than the one you were born in? I’m certain our experiences are different, but there is one thing that we may share in common when it comes to travelling, and that is the unnerving experience of being in a different environment, meeting new people and the fear of the unknown. Being subject to regulations and jurisdictions of a country you have never been to can be quite troubling however; having a guide about the country usually gives ease of mind.

Do you remember the famous quote in Job 13:15? Many quote it and indeed I have done so myself, but the true implication of the verse many scarcely contemplate. I asked myself what could have possibly been the qualifications that Job possessed in order to utter such words. How could this man whom an unerring God had declared perfect before the host of heaven, be so fearless at the miasma of death around him? How could he be solid as a rock as his flesh putrefied while he remained alive? How could he remain strong as steel when friends faded into the shadows and his wife as a thorn pricked in his flesh?

Job was faithful to God as the Bible tells us, but Job was not only faithful, he was of the mind that this earth is but a temporary place and he a pilgrim and stranger. Job understood that he is an epistle, known and read of all men. He understood that whatever happened in his life whether good or bad had an effect (directly or indirectly) on those around him. Job did not live to himself, but he lived for the glory of God and the uplifting of humanity and still that did not exempt him from death, misfortune or ill-health.

We are but strangers and pilgrims, our home is heaven and our only guide is the Bible. The environment may be different, the outcome may be devastating and the fruit unpromising, though pestilence or even death faces you, abide in Him, ‘be still and let God move.’ It is only in abiding that we are able to face the most gruesome trials with bravery and fortitude.

“We need the courage of heroes and the faith of martyrs. When in faith we take hold of His strength, He will change...the most hopeless, discouraging outlook. He will do this for the glory of His name.” E.G. White