If you knew me well, you would soon come to see that I don’t have a lot of confidence.  I sometimes lose heart when things get tough –  I often try to handle things myself with little success –  I don’t like to chances  – I need someone to lean on.

Fortunately I have been blessed with a loving spouse and a family and friends I can count on. Even if I didn’t have those things in my life I do have someone who will walk me through any kind of trouble, fears, anxiety, as well as to rejoice in my successes and hopes fulfilled.

Each day we are called upon to take chances.  We get married and start a family without really knowing the obstacles we might face.  We make investments in real estate, our education, a business and the stock market without any guarantees. When we face old age, we might even take some foolish risks to empty our bucket list.

When Joshua began his military career, God gave him some good advice.  He told him to be strong and courageous – that He would be with Joshua in the battle even as He is with us in all that we do.

Does this mean we should take chances without hesitation?  God wants us to walk in His path – not our own.  When we give our lives over to Him, He has promised to stand with us in all that we do in His name.  Our job is to put our confidence in His guidance.  We are to use our brains to figure out the options, but leave the final decision to Him.  When He gives us the answers we need, we will know it and will give us peace in our decisions.

So where does your confidence come from? 

Lord, I often feel helpless in a world so full of trouble, but you have shown me time and again that I’m never alone.  I thank you for the blessings you have given me – especially the confidence to trust in you.  I constantly need your reassurance and you generously give it to me.  I praise your Holy Name!  Amen.