This year, the Lord is calling us to take more territories as families. There are various domains that need to be re-possessed for God. For example: education, family, government, lands and natural resources.
This post will focus on one of the essential requirements for overcoming and possessing territories-strength and courage- and serves as a guide to steer conversation on the topic.
In your family bible time, please explain the following to your children:
- What does it mean to be strong and courageous?
- Biblical examples of strong and courageous people and what territories they dominated
- What is the importance of courage in gaining territories?
Strong means being able to withstand force, pressure or wear. Strength can be physical, spiritual, mental or financial. Strength says I have power to do it, I will go ahead.
Courage is synonymous to bravery. Courage says I will proceed in the midst of fear, doubt or opposition, by the help of God.
Activity 1: Discuss amongst yourself how strength can be developed e.g Spiritual-consistent prayer and bible study (Jos 1:8); Physical-regular exercise, balanced diet (1Tim 4:8); Mental- identity discovery in God (Jer 1:5); Financial-savings (Pr 6:6).
Discuss among yourself what it takes to be courageous. For instance, access to God’s voice (Josh 1:9), faith in God (Dan 3:16-18).
Some biblical examples:
Joshua and Caleb demonstrated courage when they gave a good report about Canaan despite seeing the giants. They were not afraid like the other spies and later on Joshua was assigned to lead the Israelites to possess Cannan. At age 80, Caleb said , give me this mountain…(Josh 14:12). Joshua and Caleb possessed many lands with the children of Israel.
Daniel was strong because of his faith in God. Dan 11:32b. He had no fear Dan 6:10. As a result, he continued to prosper in the governing council in Babylon for many generations. Daniel dominated in government in a strange country.
Activity 2: Discuss other examples-how they demonstrated strength and or courage; and what territories did they conquer?
(some answers: Samson; Gideon’s army, David and his men, three Hebrew boys, Jesus going to the cross)
Please share any other answers with other families by leaving a comment at the end of this page.
Activity 3: As you discuss the biblical examples, point out the importance of courage.
For example, Moses was not killed because his mother (Jochebed) was courageous (Ex 2:3)
Reflection:
It is time to apply what you have been discussing to your family context.
Are you slacking in taking actions to dominate your sphere of influence because of fear? For example, you know that God wants to use you to amend certain policies in your workplace, be courageous and take responsibility. When next an opportunity comes to be part of a committee, go for it.
If your child is showing interest in leadership, encourage them to apply for a position on the school council when next there’s an opportunity to do so.
Conclusion: Think about the biblical examples and be determined to take giant steps this year. Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid!
Family circle: Identify areas you have been discouraged in the past or projects you have abandoned because of fear or opposition and mention them in prayers.
Father, we believe in the word and your almightiness. We step out this year with faith and courage to take more territories for you in Jesus name.
Raising Godly Children 