Courage.In.Commitment.

Someone recently told me, that getting married was "the bravest thing I'd ever do." I don't really consider myself a brave person. I've never enjoyed roller coasters, or climbing tall trees. I get really, really scared if I'm alone in my apartment at night time, and I stand on the furniture if I see any type of insect other than a butterfly. I don't usually stray too far from the sidewalk--as Kelly Clarkson would say.

I got to thinking. There really is something brave, something courageous, about getting married. A person must be brave to promise to spend the rest of their life with someone, regardless of what wrong-doings are committed, what sins or bad habits are exposed. To stand beside another person through the twists and turns of life, unwavering in love and devotion...that's brave!

I decided to ask myself--how brave am I? Not on a physical level, like do I skydive or bull fight...but how brave am I spiritually? How prepared am I for the battles that arise during a marriage, and the bravery that it takes to fight them? While I don't feel that brave on my own, through Christ I feel the freedom to be fearless. Isaiah 42:6 says "I the Lord have called you in righteousness, and I will hold you by the hand." How reassuring to know that God has called me for a righteous purpose, and that He is right next to me, guiding me by the hand. I am glad to worship a God of proximity.

I get a sense of courage through Walker, also. From now on, we will be combating the trials of life together, side by side--and that is a really comforting feeling. To know that there is someone that will share in joy & pain with me, and be there through both successes and failures...what a joy! I have found such a wonderful companion in Walker Brown. He makes me not only feel brave enough to fight life's battles, but I often find myself saying "Okay Life, whats next? Bring it on. We've got this!"

Though bravery is something I lack much of, it is something I hope to gain in the coming months. Through my relationship with God, and with Walker, may I aquire more courage, and strength. May I fearlessly love, and courageously trust in this righteous purpose I have been called to. May I be a wife who is brave. For God, for her husband, and for her family.  

PS: Speaking of bravery...the pastor of my home church is currently in Ukraine with his wife & their daughter, in hopes of adopting another child. Their journey has been a rocky one thus far, but they have remained strong & focused. Their story is truly one of courage. You can find & follow the Hamlin's blog here.