Calm Confidence
by Peter Brokaar
Confidence is not the same as arrogance. Likewise, a lack of confidence does not reflect true humility. Can you imagine a Jesus with no confidence? Can you picture Him with stooping shoulders, eyes averted, intimidated by everybody around Him? Definitely not! We know that Jesus walked in that quiet confidence which comes from knowing who you are. The voice from heaven said: “You are My Son, in whom I am pleased.” Jesus knew that He was completely secure as God’s Son and nothing and no-one could take that away from Him. Despite the most heinous accusations and a myriad of threats, He was forever filled with a godly confidence.
It is said that one person plus God always constitutes a majority. How true! Even though many people may be against you, if you are in agreement with God, you will always be on the stronger side. One inspirational person from Church history is Athanasius. He is remembered by the words ‘Athanasius contra mundum’- Athanasius against the world. At a time when it seemed everyone was abandoning the sound teaching concerning the deity of Jesus, Athanasius stood firm against the mass defection. He knew He was on God’s side (confidence, not arrogance) and he was able to influence Church history for the good in a massive way. I personally would like to learn how to become more like Athanasius in such situations. What about you?
In a world which is openly turning hostile to the truths the Bible proclaims, we will be in great need of confidence, courage and inner strength. At this very moment, many Christians around the world are already suffering persecution and hardship for their belief in Jesus. It is not unlikely that those who live in the so-called ‘free world’ will soon suffer the same fate. Believing in absolute truth, in right and wrong, and in a God, who is both Creator and Judge of mankind, will prove to be extremely unpopular.
May God fill us with all the courage, wisdom and strength needed to remain calm and confident, no matter which way the world will choose to turn. As it is written: ‘So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”’ (Hebrews 13:6).
Prayer: Father, I long to grow in that quiet confidence which Jesus had. Please help me to see more and more who I am as Your son or daughter. Please give me courage and strength to face the day. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Peter Brokaar is Director of Ellel Ministries Scotland and has been there together with his wife Liz since 2005. They have 3 kids, all born in Scotland! In his free time he likes reading, cooking, running and surfing. Being at Ellel Scotland has given him the privilege of getting to know God deeper and sharing that joy with many others.
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