Courage is doing something, despite the fear it can cause. Courage can look different for everyone, particularly because we are all in different seasons, and walking in our own story. There's one thing that's certain though: walking in the purpose the Lord has predestined for us truly takes courage.

The world would like us to think our purpose is pointless – that there are better things in the world, that we have to keep up with and please everyone else – but the reality is, allowing the fear to take over, deters us from the glory Christ has for us.  

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified." – Romans 8:28-30

Romans 8 gives us the formula to being glorified by Christ.

Before we even entered this world, started that new job, married our spouse, the Lord had seen our story. First, he predestined. To predestine means to determine in advance. The Lord did not take our purpose lightly – he thought it out.

Next, we are shown that those predestined are called. To be called means to invite or summon someone to come. I think it's important to point out here that to be called is a choice. The invitation is given, and the Lord asks us to come to our calling, he cannot force us.

Those he calls, he also justifies. To be justified, means to be marked by a good reason. The Lord has marked us and given us authority in the realm of our calling. He has qualified you. Lastly, he glorifies. To glorify means to give weight to. The Lord gives weight to the things we touch, say and do. 

As you continue to walk in the things the Lord has for you, I ask you to remember Romans 8:28-30. When the world tries to call you unqualified, remember you are justified. When you are uncertain you're in the place you're supposed to be, remember you are predestined. When you feel like the struggle is no longer worth it, remember he glorifies.

Most importantly, we have to remember in the face of adversity we are called, and being called is an invitation directly from the Lord. Will you choose courage and answer it?

Written by Jordyn Moore, director of Buckner Family Pathways® in Lubbock, Texas.