For Your Heart Today

Courage rarely begins with certainty. More often, it begins with listening—listening in the quiet work of preparation, listening for God’s direction before the waters part. Before Israel ever stepped into the Jordan, they were asked to pause, to consecrate themselves, and to position their hearts to recognize where God was already at work. The miracle did not begin with movement; it began with attention.

God did not give them the full picture—He gave them His presence. The ark went before them as a visible reminder that the living God was in their midst. And that made all the difference. The waters did not part while they stood safely on the shore; they parted when the priests’ feet touched the edge. Courage, it turns out, is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to take a faithful step while trusting God to meet us there.

So often, we want clarity before obedience and reassurance before action. But God invites us to trust that He is already ahead of us and preparing a way we cannot yet see. The call is not to rush forward, but neither is it to remain stuck in preparation. There comes a moment when listening leads to movement.

This is what it means to be strong and courageous—not because the path is clear, but because God is in our midst. Strength is formed in trust. Courage is found in the first step. And when we move forward with God present among us, even the waters that once felt impossible can become the place where faith is formed.

Takeaways: Taking the First Step

Be willing to move when God says it’s time.

There is a moment when preparation is over, and it’s time to move.

Keep your eyes on the Lord.

When the way forward is unclear, following God provides direction.

Trust that God is faithful to act.

The step of faith comes before the outcome is known.

Recognize that God is in our midst.

Strength and courage flow from knowing God is with us.

Breath Prayer

Inhale: God, You are with us.

Exhale: I will take the next faithful step.

Full Manuscript - Estimated Reading Time: 18–21 minutes