This year, 2017, I choose to embrace my courageous heart.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1;9 NIV)

I must admit, though, many times, ‘my courageous heart’ just wants to run and hide.

Often, when I start doubting myself and my abilities, I reach for my little book of affirmations — my brightly, colored Peacock book — where I have written statements and declarations that I want to make my own.

At times, when I find myself battling self-doubt, I have woken up in the middle of the night, sat down on the couch  and opened this little book of truth to reaffirm God’s love,  intentions and perceptions of me.

Every time I do this, I come out on the other side with a clarity and deep knowing that God is with me and has not changed His mind on anything concerning my life.

My favourite affirmation at the moment is:

“I choose to be a woman who knows her divine worth and knowing this truth is reflected in everything I say and do.”

Because I am not used to stepping outside my comfort zone, it feels awkward and uncomfortable.  I end up second guessing myself afterwards and put myself through the ringer.

Why did I say that or why did I do that?

When courage faces fear you will often find yourself in the throes of self-doubt.

Ask yourself some questions. Did I believe that this was the right thing to do or say at the time? Was I being brave?

It’s time to start believing in yourself and the gifts of God and the Holy Spirit within you and ‘put yourself out there.’ Yes,  you will experience doubt because breaking out of our old patterns of unbelief and fear will shake us up.

I love it when God said to Joshua, “do not be discouraged.” He was having similar doubts.

Because, we will make mistakes ( but not every time) and we need to accept them for what they are — our best teachers.

More importantly, we need to trust ourselves and the truth God has placed inside each one of us to share with those around us.

Learning to respect ourselves and honour the gifts of God and the promptings of the Holy Spirit is vital to walking out God’s purpose for our lives.

I choose to be a vibrant women who lives a vibrant life.