Day 3
Be Resolute – Rosa Parks
by Ann White
Named by Time Magazine as one of the Top 20 Most Influential Women of the Twentieth Century, Rosa Parks took a stand against racial discrimination with her courage! On Day 3, discover ways you can be brave in your faith while honoring God.
“Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.”
(1 Corinthians 16:13–14).
Pray: Lord, open the eyes of my heart and help me discern truth from your Word.
Observe: We all make commitments to do—or not to do certain things throughout our lives. Unfortunately, many of our commitments fall by the wayside within thirty days of making them. When we’re put to the test and worldly pressure intensifies, we are subject to cave and back down from our cause. So what will it take to help us remain resolute?
When our resolutions are ones that honor God, he will help us keep them. God directs our path, supports our efforts, and gives us everything we need to stand firm in our commitments.
God’s Word encourages us repeatedly to examine our ways (Lamentations 3:40; 1 Corinthians 11:28), be strong and courageous (Joshua 1:9), do not fear (Isaiah 41:10), and not to give up (Galatians 6:9; Romans 5:3-5). Scripture also teaches us to hold one another accountable (1 Thessalonians 5:11; Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).
In 1955, Rosa Parks politely refused to give up her seat on a city bus in Montgomery, Alabama. In doing so, she took a stand against racial discrimination and ultimately helped initiate the civil rights movement in the United States. Over the next fifty years, Rosa became a nationally recognized symbol of courage and determination in the struggle to end racial segregation.
“When that white driver stepped back toward us, when he waved his hand and ordered us up and out of our seats, I felt a determination cover my body like a quilt on a winter night.” – Rosa Parks
When we keep our eyes on Christ and allow Him to be the source of our strength, we become an instrument in God’s hands and can even change the course of history.
Courageously stand resolute in your faith by exercising the following attributes:
- Evaluate your commitments and position to ensure they are godly and necessary.
- Embrace your God-given courage and face your challenges, even if you’re afraid.
- Persevere and press on to overcome any obstacle standing in your way.
- Rely on the support of godly friends and loved ones to encourage and support you.
Interpret: God expects us to be strong and courageous in everything he calls us to do.
Apply: Begin memorizing Philippians 4:13 and allow this passage to inspire you to be resolute in sharing your faith with someone today.
Pray: Father, thank you for giving me the ability to be brave when you call me to take a stand. Please help me to honor you, stand firm in my faith, and represent you well.