Be Strong and Courageous

Happy Monday to our CFC Family!

Over the past three weeks, we have walked through some of the powerful testimonies in the Book of Daniel. In chapter 3, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow to the golden image, even when the furnace was heated seven times hotter. In chapter 6, Daniel continued to pray openly, even with the Lions’ Den awaiting him. And in chapter 7, we were encouraged to lift our eyes beyond earthly kingdoms and evil forces and to see the Ancient of Days and the everlasting Kingdom that will never be destroyed. These stories remind us that, even in the face of evil and ungodly opposition, we have a future hope and an eternal home above the chaos of this world.

Living by our convictions is one of the most powerful things we can do for the Lord! It shapes our decisions, aligns our paths, and moves us to stand for what is right, even when it is unpopular or misunderstood.

Today, as the province of Manitoba, we remember another man who stood steadfast by his convictions: Louis Riel. One of the founding figures of our province, he stood firmly for his people despite exile, public criticism, and ultimately death.

While some may not agree with every choice he made, reflecting on his life and the sacrifices he endured reminds us of the courage it takes to stand for what one believes is right.

Riel rose to leadership during a turbulent time in the Red River settlement. When the Canadian government moved to assume control without consulting the local population, the Métis feared losing their land, language, Catholic faith, and cultural identity. Riel helped establish a provisional government to negotiate protections, which eventually led to Manitoba entering Confederation in 1870.

In 1885, when Métis communities in what is now Saskatchewan again sought recognition, Riel returned from exile in the United States to lead their cause in what became known as the “North-West Resistance.” The uprising ended in defeat, and Riel was captured, tried for treason, and executed. Though he could have avoided death by pleading insanity, he insisted on defending his actions and convictions.

Now, I am not saying Riel was a perfect role model. He made difficult, controversial decisions that spark debate on both sides to this very day, yet his life reminds us that standing firm in conviction often comes at a great personal cost.

Whether it was Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, or Louis Riel, the dangers they faced because of their convictions were very real. They had their fiery furnace, the Lions’ Den, and the threat of death, yet all of them demonstrated courage by standing for what they believed in, no matter what outcome faced them.

And that same courage is needed in our world day. We are living in perilous times here in Canada and around the world, where darkness is not only increasing but being exposed. As truth shines brighter, resistance grows stronger. Just as an animal that is cornered and threatened will fight for its life, the enemy will become more aggressive against the righteous as we draw closer to the Lord’s return.

Scripture reminds us that the last days will grow more difficult and we can feel that reality unfolding before our eyes. But this is not a time for retreat. It is a time for courage.

As believers, our role model is Jesus Christ, and our guidebook is the Word of God. Servants of God like Daniel and the three young men inspire us to remain steadfast in obedience, showing us what it looks like to stand for truth even under threat. Their example and the example of Christ calls us to live with courage, integrity, and faithfulness in a culture that often resists biblical truth.

Our calling is clear: to allow convictions formed by the living Word of God to direct every step we take. We do not stand in arrogance or anger, but in humility and grace. Anchored in an unshakable confidence in the everlasting Kingdom of Christ. No matter how unstable the world becomes, our foundation remains firm. As Paul urges us in 1 Corinthians 15:58, “Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain.”

This Louis Riel Day, let us search our own hearts. If faithfulness were to cost us comfort, approval, reputation, or even or freedom, would we still stand? God is looking for a people who will not waver when pressure mounts, who will speak without compromise when truth is challenged, and who will endure without surrender when opposition rises.

The truth is, our ultimate allegiance is not to a temporary kingdom or earthly land, but to the Kingdom that will never be destroyed. A Kingdom that cannot be shaken, voted out, or overthrown.

And as the Lord once spoke to Joshua in Joshua 1:9, standing on the edge of uncertainty, so He speaks to us today:

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Question: Where in your life is God calling you to be more courageous right now?

Have a great week and we’ll see you Sunday!

Pastor Dan