Be Brave

This past weekend, I was asked by a very wise and Godly sister when the last time I was brave. It really stopped me in my tracks because it’s not really a question that is asked. It’s interesting because when this year began, God really put this theme on my heart. I felt like he was saying, “Yuni, 2015 is a year of “being brave.” Honestly, I didn’t know what that was supposed to look like or why that was pressed upon my heart. I do know that since the new year started, He has given me ample opportunities to step out of my comfort zone with courage and faith. He’s also shown himself to be faithful in guiding and leading me. I just need to have faith and take that initial step. Choosing to be brave can feel risky. At least it feels like that to me. But this sister responded by saying, “To God, there is no risk. What risk is there? Risk is a human formation. Being brave means that even when you know there is fear involved, you still push through.” Through the lens of my flawed human eyes, risk is the possibility of failure, rejection and disappointment.  Through the lens of my father, risk can become an opportunity to exercise my faith in Him.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

When was the last time you were brave? What did that entail? 

It’s funny because the times I really hear from the Lord are when I run, paint or do dishes. I actually like doing dishes because it gives me time to myself and I can sing, pray and think while getting a necessary chore finished. Yesterday after Jimmy came home from work, I was desperate for some alone time so I went for a good run. I listened to this song on repeat the entire time and just worshiped, sang and allowed God to speak his truths over me. During that sacred time, the Lord reminded me of his goodness and his unending grace over my life. My sister and I like to joke around that it’s a miracle that we ended up where we did. I truly believe it’s the Lord’s grace and our mother’s prayers! Look, we all have our brokenness and are all essentially messed up. I’m so thankful that Jesus came for the messed up ones like you and me. It’s just a testament to what God can do. 

For you, being brave might be confessing to another wise person that you are desperately struggling in your marriage that seems to be falling apart. If that’s you, can I just share this powerful verse with you?

Maybe it’s admitting you have an addiction and that you need help. Maybe being brave means coming face to face with that fact and seeking counsel.

Maybe you’re a mom and you’re struggling with your identity after having kids. Disciplining and raising kids is tough and you’re worn out. You feel like you have nothing else to give. Hey, that’s me. I’ve been there and I’m still there at times. I understand. Being brave can mean taking that step and approaching another sister for help or just asking them to walk alongside you. 

Maybe you are at a crossroads in life and you don’t know where to turn. Sometimes being brave looks like waiting patiently and just being still. Let him guide you quietly while drowning out all the distractions around you. When there is uncertainty, he is still faithful and will lead you, if you allow him. 

You may not understand anything I’m talking about because all this God talk is confusing or seems so distant to you. If this is you but you are interested in knowing more about this Jesus guy, maybe being brave means just asking God with a simple prayer. Just say to him, “God I don’t know you, but I want to know you more. Can you help me understand you more?” Check out local churches online near where you live because joining a community will help you answer questions you have and they can help you walk in your new faith. If you don’t know how to start, email me at loveyourabode@gmail.com. 

If you’re going through a season of pain, my heart goes out to you. You aren’t alone. The Lord hears, sees and loves you. Seek him through your pain and in the midst of your struggle; turn to him in prayer and word. Let him equip you with everything necessary during this difficult season. Let him grow you in character and plant seeds of perseverance and joy throughout this hardship.

As always, thank you so much for reading. When I started writing around Christmas time last year, I had a lot of doubts and fears about starting this blog. I knew for me it was taking a bold step out of my comfort zone. I had a lot of fears like, “I’m no writer. I can barely formulate sentences after talking to a toddler all day.” Or even, “Who will want to read about all my crazy projects?” I felt like it was taking a risk but, in reality, it was just taking a leap of faith and knowing that God wanted to use my giftings and talents for his glory. My passion for interior design, diy, baking, etc are all fun and I absolutely love it but I know that this little place is a platform to share my faith and whatever HE wants me to say to you. My prayer is that you would hear Him speaking to your heart. Just like he created one brand of Yuni Min, he has also created one brand of YOU. I know it’s tempting to compare ourselves with others who seem smarter, prettier, have it all together. BUT you are unique and beautiful in the way he created and purposed you to be. He has specifically given you unique talents and gifts. Be brave today and take that step to be obedient so that you can live in the freedom that he gives. Grab onto that truth that you are his beloved. 

Be brave,

<><yuni