Courageous Simplicity by (In)courageSample

DAY 5

My hands, clasped tight, jostled up and down with the rhythm of the train. On this first of many commutes downtown, I sat in the first car and tried to pray as building after building passed by. Today marked the first day of a new job, and I had all the typical emotions connected with that. I was excited and nervous, giddy and terrified. A million thoughts raced through my mind. I wanted to do well today, to do great things and make a mark. I wanted to be confident, to make it look as though I belonged. 

As I was praying for these things, something made me pause. Something didn’t feel right. As the doors of the train opened and closed yet again, I wondered about my prayer. What was I really praying for and why? 

In the midst of my desire to impress and succeed, I had forgotten to express simple gratitude to God for this new job. I had been so focused on myself that I had lost sight of God’s hand and sovereignty over it all. I wouldn’t even have this job without His divine orchestration. 

Immediately my prayer changed course. I began praying a simple list of thank-yous. I thanked God for giving me this job. I thanked Him for opening this door, for bringing me to this place, for making this dream possible. 

Then I began looking around. My eyes gazed out the window and watched the rising sun. I thanked God for this new day, for His mercies and faithfulness in my life. The more things I found to be grateful for, the more I was able to breathe deeply and relax my body and mind. In fact, by the time I stepped off the train, I felt full of joy and peace. 

It’s amazing how powerful humble gratitude can be. Remembering what God has done is a simple way not only to calm our nerves but more importantly to reorient our focus and give thanks in any circumstance. 

—MICHELLE REYES 

When we let the reality of God’s constant presence and unfailing goodness become our greatest focus, guess what’s going to follow? Joy, peace, and a desire to worship God with everything we’ve got. 

We hope this plan encouraged you! To download a free week of the Courageous Simplicity Bible Study and teaching video, visit incourage.me/courageousbiblestudy.