31 | Courageous Hearts: A Christian's Guide

Imagine navigating life's constant changes with the strength and courage inspired by biblical wisdom. Paula, your host and Aroma Freedom Technique practitioner, takes you on an enlightening journey using the story of Joshua's transformation from follower to leader. With the calming presence of essential oils and the supportive embrace of community, discover how faith can act as an anchor amidst the chaos of change. Reflect on the powerful promise of God's unwavering presence, providing a beacon of hope through every life transition.

This episode of Living on Purpose in Christ unravels what true courage means for Christian women, emphasizing that it’s not about the absence of fear but the act of moving forward despite it. Paula shares personal insights and practical tools, like meditation and prayer, to help quiet the mind and open the heart to divine whispers. Embrace the opportunity to release control, lean on your faith network, and allow each phase of your story to unfold with divine intention. Let the Holy Spirit guide your steps, trusting that your journey is woven with grace and purpose.

Transcript

Paula Behrens: 0:00

Welcome back to Living on Purpose in Christ, where we navigate life's journeys through faith, courage and the soothing whispers of hope from the Holy Spirit. I'm your host, paula, an Aroma Freedom Technique practitioner, pastor and digital creator dedicated to crafting faith-building resources for Christian women. Today, I want to delve deep into a message that resonates with many of us in times of uncertainty Embracing Change with Courage. Inspired by Joshua, chapter 1, verse 9. Change is perhaps one of the most constant themes in our lives, whether it's a new job, a move to a new city, the arrival of a new family member or even the changing seasons in our faith journey. Change can be both exhilarating and terrifying. As Christians, we often find ourselves grappling with the tension between fear and faith, especially when stepping into the unknown. Today, we'll take inspiration from Joshua, chapter 1, verse 9, where God commands him. From Joshua, chapter 1, verse 9, where God commands him have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous? Before we dive into how this scripture can impact our lives today, let's revisit the story of Joshua. Joshua was stepping into some big shoes. He was following in the footsteps of Moses, one of the most significant leaders in biblical history. The weight of responsibility was immense and the transformation from being a follower to a leader was daunting, sound familiar.

Paula Behrens: 1:37

We too face these pivotal moments when we transition from one role in life to another. It's a reminder that we're not alone in our struggles. In this moment of transition, god offered Joshua a powerful promise his constant presence with him. In the same breath of commanding Joshua to be strong and courageous, god assured him that he would be with him wherever he went. What a comforting assurance for us as well, knowing that our journey, with all its twists and turns, is never walked alone.

Paula Behrens: 2:16

Let's dive into the essence of what courage really means for us as Christian women. Courage isn't the absence of fear. It's moving forward in spite of it. It's acknowledging that, while the world seems chaotic and our paths uncertain, our faith anchors us. We have a God who never changes, even when everything else does. Imagine driving along a foggy road. You can't see what's ahead, but you trust the road is there. Each turn of the wheel and press on the gas pedal is an act of faith, just like each step we take in life's transitions. Our Savior lights our path like those headlights piercing the fog, one day at a time.

Paula Behrens: 3:04

As a faith-centered coach and aroma freedom practitioner, I often speak with women who are seeking peace amidst the storm. The calming essence of essential oils can gently guide us into a state of tranquility, helping us to quiet our minds enough to hear God's whispers. It's like pulling away the fog, revealing the steady road beneath us. We learn to trust in God's provision and find peace in His promises. In Embracing Change, one of the greatest gifts we have is the community around us. Joshua had the people of Israel. Who do you have? Who in your life feels like an extension of God's support? Seek those connections. God often uses others to remind us of his love and encouragement.

Paula Behrens: 3:53

As believers, coming together even just for prayer can be a profound source of strength and courage. Remember the people you surround yourself with are like a net, woven tightly by shared faith. They catch you when you feel like you're falling. Allow their prayers, stories and experiences to inspire you to courageously step into new chapters, knowing you're supported by a divine network of love. In moments of solitude, consider taking time for meditation and reflection. Allow the biblical aroma of oils to envelop your senses and use them as tools to draw nearer to God. In these moments, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what he's guiding you toward. Listen for the gentle stirrings in your heart and trust them.

Paula Behrens: 4:47

Reflect on Joshua, chapter 1 verse, and let it be a prayer. Lord, you have commanded me to be strong and courageous. Help me to release my fears to you, trusting in your presence every step of the way. You might find that the very act of releasing control is where strength and courage begin to take shape. Finally, living on purpose in Christ means embracing each phase of change with the understanding that your life story is being woven with divine intention. It's about waking up each day with a sense of hope and expectation, knowing that the God who parts seas and moves mountains is guiding you too.

Paula Behrens: 5:43

Being courageous does not mean that you will not face challenges. It means facing them with confidence that the same God who was with Joshua is with you, whispering. Be strong and courageous, my beloved child, as you continue on your journey. Remember that courage is not a moment. It is a movement, a continuous evolving part of our spiritual walk. Each step is an affirmation of faith, each breath a testament to trust and each challenge an opportunity to see God's hand at work. Thank you for joining us on this episode of Living on Purpose in Christ. Thank you for joining us on this episode of Living on Purpose in Christ. My prayer for you today and every day, is that your heart will be filled with courage and your spirit anchored in grace. If today's show resonated with you, consider sharing it with a friend who could use a little encouragement, and don't forget to subscribe to the podcast to stay updated on future shows. Until next time, may you embrace the changes with faith and assurance that you are deeply loved and held by the one who commands us to be strong and courageous.