Moving Forward with Brave Hearted Courage by Rev. Maria Guzman

Hello Brave Hearted Steppers,

One of my favorite things to do is listen to music. As I reflected on this month's theme, which included the life applications and the Pause, Pray, Take 30! messages, the word "Courage" led me to the song "Take Courage" by Kristene DiMarco. If you haven't heard it yet, I highly recommend taking a moment to listen and reflect on its message.

Brave Hearted Ministry is built upon the foundation of this very courage. It’s a ministry rooted in the call to Move Forward in a Brave Hearted way, no matter the obstacles, and to trust in God’s guidance every step of the way. As we walk through the Bible, we see countless examples of Brave Hearted Steppers—individuals who stepped into the unknown with faith and courage to fulfill God’s calling on their lives.

In this journey, we can find comfort and strength in the words of the song "Take Courage." These powerful lyrics remind us of the beauty of waiting on God, trusting that He will reveal His plan and that He is always faithful. 

1. Courage to Trust in God’s Plan

The first step in moving forward with Brave Hearted courage is to trust that God’s plan is far greater than anything we can imagine. In times of doubt, it is easy to become paralyzed by fear of the unknown. But God calls us to trust Him fully, even when the way is unclear.

In the song "Take Courage," we hear the words:  

"Slow down, take time  

‘Breathe in,’ He said  

He’d reveal what’s to come."

God calls us to slow down and trust His timing. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in Him and lean not on our own understanding:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV)

When we trust God’s timing and His plan, even when we don’t understand it fully, we can walk forward with Brave Hearted confidence.

2. Courage to Act in Faith

Brave Hearted courage doesn’t just stay within the confines of our hearts; it must be acted upon. Faith without action is like a seed that never gets planted. God calls us to "act in faith", knowing that He will provide the resources, strength, and wisdom we need.

In the song, we are reminded to hold onto our hope because, in the end, our triumph will unfold.  

"And hold onto your hope  

As your triumph unfolds  

He’s never failing."

In the story of Abraham, we see a powerful example of faith in action. God told him to leave his homeland and go to a land he did not know. Abraham could have stayed in the comfort of the familiar, but he moved forward with Brave Hearted courage, trusting that God would fulfill His promises.

“By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.” (Hebrews 11:8, NIV)

When we act in faith, we trust that God will lead us, even when the future is unclear.

3. Courage to Stand Firm in God’s Strength

When the challenges seem overwhelming, it can be tempting to give up or give in. But we are reminded throughout Scripture that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9), and that He equips us to stand firm and face any adversity.

The lyrics from "Take Courage" remind us:  

"He’s in the waiting,  

He’s in the waiting."

Even in moments of waiting, God is present and at work in our lives. Ephesians 6:10-11 calls us to stand firm in His strength:

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:10-11, NIV)

As we wait and stand firm in His strength, we can move forward with Brave Hearted courage, knowing that God will empower us through every trial or tribulation.

4. Courage to Lead Others with Compassion

Brave Hearted courage also calls us to lead others with compassion, understanding, and a heart of service. As we Brave Heartedly step forward in our own Brave Hearted journeys, we are never meant to walk alone. God calls us to come alongside others, lift them up, and lead with love.

In 1 Peter 5:2-3, Peter gives this instruction to leaders:

“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them… being examples to the flock.” (1 Peter 5:2-3, NIV)

To lead with Brave Hearted courage means to lead with humility and love, understanding that our role is to reflect the love of Christ in every interaction.

The song "Take Courage" also reminds us of the importance of staying steadfast, trusting that God is working in the waiting. By leading others with love, we demonstrate His faithfulness and compassion.

5. Brave Hearted Courage to Overcome Fear

Fear is one of the greatest barriers to moving forward with Brave Hearted courage. But as Christians, we are not called to live in fear. In fact, God promises us His perfect peace and power to overcome any fear.

In Isaiah 41:10, God reassures us:

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10, NIV)

The lyrics of "Take Courage" echo this promise:  

"And You who hold the stars,  

Who call them each by name,  

Will surely keep Your promise to me,  

That I will rise in Your victory."

With God by our side, we have nothing to fear. Brave Hearted courage is about standing firm in the knowledge that God is with us and that His perfect love will cast out all fear (1 John 4:18).

6. Brave Hearted Courage to Persevere

Brave Hearted courage is not just about taking one step of faith—it’s about continuing to move forward, day after day, with persistence. The journey may be long, the obstacles may be many, but God promises to be with us through it all.

James 1:12 encourages us to keep pressing forward:

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” (James 1:12, NIV)

The song reminds us that as we persevere, we will see our "triumph unfold", and God’s faithfulness will be evident in our lives. Perseverance is key, and with each Brave Hearted step, we are growing in faith and becoming more like Christ.

Moving Forward with Brave Hearted Courage

Brave Hearted Ministry calls us to take up the mantle of Brave Hearted courage, trust, and action. It is not just about stepping out into the unknown; it is about trusting God to guide us, equip us, and empower us to move forward, no matter the obstacles.

So, what is God calling you to do today? What Brave Hearted step is He asking you to take with Brave Hearted courage? As you step forward in faith, know that you are not alone. God (The Father, The Son (Jesus Christ), The Holy Spirit) is with you, leading you, and strengthening you every Brave Hearted step of the way.

As the song "Take Courage" reminds us,  

"He’s never failing."

Let us embrace our Brave Hearted courage and walk boldly into the future He has planned for us.

Many Blessings,

Rev. Maria Guzman

Founder of Brave Hearted Ministry

Reference:

"Take Courage" by Kristene DiMarco (https://youtu.be/LJoABwNMzvM?si=kGTZffI_C0B15oTh)
“Ten Fe Corazón” por Bethel Music https://youtu.be/xb0nG5cwCvM