Practical Courage - Illustration

Imagine a small, weathered boat bobbing in a choppy sea. The water is dark and tumultuous, and the wind howls around it like an angry beast. But inside that boat sits a fisherman who knows these waters well. He’s faced storms before, and though fear grips him, he also feels an unshakeable confidence—a trust rooted in his experience and his knowledge of the sea. He knows that while the waves may rise higher than his boat, they do not have the power to swallow him whole.

In Hebrews 11:1, we are reminded that “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This fisherman embodies that very faith. His courage to cast his net in turbulent waters reflects a deep trust in what he cannot yet see. Similarly, we are called to embrace courage in our relationships and challenges, understanding that our faith anchors us even in the fiercest storms of life.

When we face uncertainty—whether in our families, jobs, or within ourselves—we must lean into our community for support. Sharing our fears and frustrations allows us to witness one another’s faith in action. It’s in those moments of vulnerability that we experience the hesed (steadfast love) of God through each other.

Let us be a community that encourages one another, casting our nets of faith boldly, trusting that God holds the depths of the waters beneath us, guiding us toward hope and spiritual growth. As we step into the unknown, may we find courage in our collective faith, knowing we are never alone in the storm.