January 2, 2019
A Braver, Smarter and Stronger You
Gwen Smith
Today’s Truth
If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. (John 15:7, NIV)
Friend to Friend
One of the most lovable and charming characters in the history of cartoon animation has to be Winnie the Pooh. He simply oozes adorableness and positivity.
In the movie, Pooh’s Grand Adventure: The Search for Christopher Robin, Pooh and Christopher Robin, who are the closest of friends, have a moving conversation high in a tree where strength and love flow heart-to-heart.
CHRISTOPHER ROBIN: "Oh, Pooh. If ever there's a tomorrow when we're not together, there's something you must remember."
POOH: "And what might that be, Christopher Robin?"
CHRISTOPHER ROBIN: "You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think."
POOH: "Oh, that's easy. We're braver than a bee, and, uh, longer than a tree, and taller than a goose . . . or, uh, was that a moose?"
CHRISTOPHER ROBIN: "No, silly, old bear! You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is even if we're apart; I'll always be with you. I'll always be with you. I'll always be with you."
This conversation reminds me of the conversation Jesus had with His disciples after His resurrection. He gave them new marching orders and assured them that though He had to leave, they would never be alone.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You trust in God; trust also in me.” (John 14:1)
“Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” (John 14:12-14)
“If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever – the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” (John 14:15-17)
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:26-27)
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing… If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” (John 15:5, 7-8)
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
May these last words of Jesus serve as a reminder to you today that you are not alone or ill-equipped in your life. Because of this truth, you are able to be a woman of great courage and faith through Christ! Live like it.
Start this New Year with fresh, inspired courage!
You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think because the Spirit of God is at work within you to embolden, strengthen, and guide you.
Above all, remember this: God is with you. Always.
Let’s Pray
Lord, Thank you for the presence of Your Holy Spirit in my life. Please open my eyes wide to all the courage, strength and wisdom you have for me in Christ. Crush my insecurities and doubts so that I might be an effective witness of Your power.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
Now It’s Your Turn
Fill in these blanks: “Today (and this year), I will face ____________ with the courage that the Lord provides for me instead of trembling in fear. In this area of weakness, ___________, I will ask God for strength and will trust that His grace is sufficient to provide what I need. And I will pray for wisdom and direction concerning ___________ so that the Spirit of God can guide me with divine wisdom which is far greater that anything I can come up with on my own.” {Did you do it? If so, let me know by leaving a comment on my most recent Instagram post.}
More from the Girlfriends
Portions of today’s devotion are an excerpt from Gwen Smith’s book, I Want It ALL.
If you struggle with an anxious heart, this is for you! Girlfriends in God cofounder Gwen Smith is hosting a FREE online Bible Study, a PSALM ADVENTURE, Part 2, beginning January 14th. We’ve gotten countless messages asking how you can know what God says about forgiveness, healing, fear, depression, finances, relationships and hope. You want to know and trust God more, and learn how to connect your personal struggles to His promises.
That’s exactly what we’re going to explore in Part 2 our PSALM ADVENTURE because we’re going right to the source of all grace and truth: the Bible. Join Gwen for this four-week study. LEARN MORE and REGISTER TODAY by visiting GwenSmith.net/PsalmAdventure.
Seeking God?
GirlfriendsInGod.com
Click here to learn more about hosting a Girlfriends in God conference in your area or having one of the GiGs speak at your next women's event.