Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might.
Ephesians 6:10
Fortitude!
Ephesians 6:10
Fortitude!
As I wrote in my previous journal entry, I was in the recreation yard on Saturday morning hanging out with my Christian friend, Pedro, when the word "fortitude" popped into my mind. It wouldn't leave. So I reasoned that the Lord must want me to do a study on this word and make a personal application to it.
The Merriam-Webster's Dictionary (© 2014), defines fortitude as follows: "Strength of mind that enables one to meet danger or bear pain or adversity with courage." This is a good word for a follower of Christ to know, and put into practice.
When I consider my own situation, living in a predominantly negative environment where there's bickering and arguing amongst the prisoners, and even between the inmates and staff, it requires the use of whatever inner fortitude I could muster to overcome such negativity.
There are the sickening displays of racism, and the discouragement one may receive from those who, perhaps out of jealousy, try to sabotage the positive things you're hoping to accomplish. Then there's the challenge to overcome the general inertia one can find in many correctional facilities, where laziness and indifference seem to rule the minds of both the staff and prisoners.
Yet in spite of all these negative factors, the Bible declares that "For with God nothing shall be impossible" (Luke 1:37). And, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me then strength" (Philippians 4:13).
Yes, mental and spiritual fortitude is needed in order to live as a disciple of Jesus when one lives behind prison walls. It's surely needed for all those to want to live for Christ on the outside, as well. Why? Because the world, the flesh, and the devil war against the child of God every day.
Our inner fortitude comes from the Holy Spirit who dwells within every "born again" believer, but we are still required to build our strength by studying the Scriptures, and by uniting with fellow Christians for times of prayer and fellowship. God has made us to be "more than conquerors" (Romans 8:37). He has not made us to be weak, wimpy people. He has made and declared us to be winners and overcomers.
D. B.
The Merriam-Webster's Dictionary (© 2014), defines fortitude as follows: "Strength of mind that enables one to meet danger or bear pain or adversity with courage." This is a good word for a follower of Christ to know, and put into practice.
When I consider my own situation, living in a predominantly negative environment where there's bickering and arguing amongst the prisoners, and even between the inmates and staff, it requires the use of whatever inner fortitude I could muster to overcome such negativity.
There are the sickening displays of racism, and the discouragement one may receive from those who, perhaps out of jealousy, try to sabotage the positive things you're hoping to accomplish. Then there's the challenge to overcome the general inertia one can find in many correctional facilities, where laziness and indifference seem to rule the minds of both the staff and prisoners.
Yet in spite of all these negative factors, the Bible declares that "For with God nothing shall be impossible" (Luke 1:37). And, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me then strength" (Philippians 4:13).
Yes, mental and spiritual fortitude is needed in order to live as a disciple of Jesus when one lives behind prison walls. It's surely needed for all those to want to live for Christ on the outside, as well. Why? Because the world, the flesh, and the devil war against the child of God every day.
Our inner fortitude comes from the Holy Spirit who dwells within every "born again" believer, but we are still required to build our strength by studying the Scriptures, and by uniting with fellow Christians for times of prayer and fellowship. God has made us to be "more than conquerors" (Romans 8:37). He has not made us to be weak, wimpy people. He has made and declared us to be winners and overcomers.
D. B.
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