Julie Fillinger

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Introduction   

As I reflect on my journey and the live sessions we’ve been sharing, one truth stands out: courage is not a one-time thing. It’s a continual practice, woven through moments of faith, vulnerability, and perseverance. I’m learning that courage must be renewed and exercised again and again. Each experience—whether smooth or disjointed—reminds me to keep moving forward and to trust that God will provide the strength I need for the journey. 

Mid-Series Recap and Podcast Update  

Last week, I sat down with Eric in the studio to talk about how our live sessions are progressing. I called that interview the Courage Live Mid Series Recap . We’re halfway through the series, and I wanted to give everyone an update. The episode posted on February 10th and is available on my website, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. I’m even considering starting a YouTube channel, though for now, WKUL’s YouTube channel features my podcast among others. While we felt good about the interview, our next live session didn’t go as smoothly—it felt disjointed. Still, our group is forgiving, and since the session was titled Courage is Not a One Time Thing , we’re determined to practice what we preach and keep moving forward.  

Everyday Courage in Grief  

I opened our live session by asking the group how they’d seen everyday courage recently. Widows and widowers in our group shared stories of learning to live again after losing a spouse. My mom is one of those people. She was recently hospitalized, but her spirits stayed high—her biggest concern was missing her hair appointment! Even after losing my father, she found the courage to keep living. I wrote a book about this journey, Courage to Live: Learning to Live Again After Loss. It’s not a polished work, but it’s my honest journal about losing Nicholas and how God gave me the courage to go on. The message seems to resonate with others, including Eric, and together we felt led to start the Courage for the Journey ministry. We’re just getting started, and I’m grateful for everyone who’s joined us. 

Daniel in the Lion’s Den: A Lesson in Courage  

We discussed the story of Daniel in the lion’s den from Daniel 6. At 82, Daniel continued to show unwavering faith and courage, even when it meant facing death. Jealous officials tricked King Darius into signing a law that put Daniel’s life at risk, but Daniel stayed true to his faith, praying openly as always. God protected him, and King Darius ultimately praised Daniel’s God. This story reminds me that courage isn’t a one-time act—God expects us to stay the course, and He will give us the courage we need for the journey.  

My Struggles with Sharing the Gospel  

I want to be honest: sharing the Gospel in unscripted situations terrifies me. Even though I prepare and study, I worry about not having the right words when the moment comes. I dread those spontaneous opportunities, especially when traveling. I know in my head that God is sovereign, but my heart still struggles with fear. I take comfort in Luke 21:13–15, where Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will give us the words we need when we bear witness, especially in difficult times.  

Internalizing my Faith, Not Memorizing  a Script

A recent sermon really spoke to me: “Internalize, don’t memorize.” I realized I don’t need to follow a script when sharing my faith. Instead, I can trust the Holy Spirit to bring to mind what I already know to be true. This shift has lifted a weight off my shoulders and made me less fearful about having Gospel conversations in everyday life.  

Boldness Through the Holy Spirit  

I’m inspired by the story of Peter and John in Acts 4. Despite opposition, they boldly proclaimed their faith, and their courage inspired their community to pray for even more boldness. I want that kind of boldness—to trust the Holy Spirit to give me the words I need and to pray for courage to speak God’s word with confidence. If we want ground-shaking prayer, we must ask the Holy Spirit for boldness, knowing He will provide. 
  

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