In previous posts of “A Different Perspective” and COVID-19, I described C for Courage and O for Overcome.

This week we look at the letter V.

V is for VALOR

Strength of mind or spirit that enables a person to encounter danger with

firmness or personal bravery

 [Merriam-Webster]

When we encounter the unsettling possibilities of this nasty virus—whether the threat be physical, mental, emotional, psychological—we have several options. Flee, fixate on the scary thing, or keep the eyes of our heart focused on hope and believe that a brighter, better day will come in whatever way[s] that may differ from how we lived before all this began to unfold.

In that light, all of us could use a strong infusion of valor. What does that mean in real life, especially in these times that are the darkest many of us have ever experienced?

To have strength of mind or spirit, I am reminded of a favorite Scripture: “I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me.” [Philippians 4:13] Why is this so important?

In our humanness, we are finite. As much as we don’t like to admit it, no matter how hard we may try, we have limited physical, emotional, and intellectual resources. God doesn’t. The Divine can supply us with all we lack or need, however, we have to humble ourselves and ask for his help. Not easy for us to accept in our culture that prizes willpower, independence, and individual achievement.

A person who is enabled to encounter danger with firmness or personal bravery is a person who has learned the value and importance of having the strength of mind or spirit that is only possible by the grace of God.

Listen to any number of respected medical and mental health experts these days as they describe how fear-based behaviors drive people to hoard items of any and all description. While it is good and proper to take care of self and family, let us be firm with ourselves and make choices in consideration of the needs of others.

When we are empowered with the strength of God, we can do everything we need to do, including encounter danger with firmness or personal bravery. Which is not to say we don’t do it feeling afraid. Feelings are part of being human, even the ones that feel yucky. The important thing to remember is to feel them without letting them fuel negative and unloving actions.

Valor is a concept often associated with the military and times of war, and rightly so. However, what is more obvious than ever is the way we see the valorous souls around us in this season of crisis, fear, and upheaval.

From the first responders in our communities, to those on the front lines in our hospitals; those working hard to make sure we have groceries and medicine; our family members young and old; our neighbors—all of us have the opportunity to be a person of valor. Will you?

“Do not fear I am with you; do not be anxious: I am your God.

I will strengthen you, I will help you,

I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.”

[Isaiah 41:10]