I can’t think of a single time “brave” showed up as an emotion in my world. I know what it is to be brave. But in those times often what I still feel is fear. The pounding of my heart and the quickening of my breath. The spinning of the earth beneath my feet and the sense that I may be full out crazy to go through with what I’m about to do.
And as I think about this, I realize maybe I’ve misunderstood what brave feels like: I thought it was a roar and a lunge. But maybe it is a whisper and a trembling step. I thought it was loud and bold. Perhaps it’s quiet and almost invisible. I imagined it would mean the absence of all insecurity. Yet I’m wondering now if it’s faith dancing the two-step with doubt.
If this is so, then what makes me act brave is also what scares me silly.
This lets me breathe a sigh of relief. Because it means I don’t have to wait to be filled with confidence and courage before I can do anything, I can just show up anyway. If that’s so, then I have more courage than I thought. And more answers than I realized. So do you.
XOXO
Holley Gerth
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This post is a small excerpt from Strong, Brave, Loved. And in just a few days, my newest book releases into the world! I’d be so grateful if you would preorder a copy for yourself, for a friend, or to keep on hand for Christmas gifts. Be sure to hold onto your email receipt, because it will give you access to a free Online Bible Study {more details coming soon}.
On the More Than Small Talk podcast this week, we’re answering this question: If you were in a superhero movie would you rather be the superhero or the sidekick? I’d love to hear your answer! Join the MTST Facebook group and chime in, or click here to listen to Episode 42: Ever Feel Invisible?
