Hollywood’s definition of bravery often centres on superheroes and death-defying feats, and the Bible also includes acts of incredible courage. However, these examples can often feel far from our day-today lives. In Brave, Debbie Duncan assures us that God’s definition of courage is not limited to liberating a nation like Moses or fighting a giant like David. Indeed, facing everyday situations requires bravery. Perhaps you’re facing redundancy, ill health, or strife in your family. Giving examples from her personal life. Debbie takes us on a journey that will help us endure the challenges that come our way with our heads held high. Understanding what real-life bravery looks like will encourage you to step out of the boat like Peter, or simply to get out of bed when you’re struggling. Brave will help to reassure you that God is with you in every season of life, and that you are braver than you think!
Cuprins
Contents
Acknowledgments 9
Brave poem by Anna Grace Duncan 11
Introduction 16
Chapter 1 What is Bravery? 22
Chapter 2 Coping with Change 33
Chapter 3 Bravery in the Face of Ill Health 47
Chapter 4 The Challenges of Parenthood 59
Chapter 5 Facing Retirement by Barbara Graham 74
Chapter 6 Bravery through the Seasons by Debbie and Matthew Duncan 87
Chapter 7 Bravery in the Face of Uncertainty 101
Chapter 8 Facing Up to Forgiveness 111
Chapter 9 Quietness Can Be Brave! 120
Chapter 10 Coping with Grief and Loss 131
Chapter 11 Living A Life We Didn’t Choose 151
Conclusion 162
Endnotes 164
Despre autor
Debbie Duncan is an advanced nurse practitioner and lecturer in nursing; a church leader and minister’s wife. She is married to Rev Malcolm Duncan and has a busy family life that includes being mum to their four grown up children.She is the author of Brave, The Art of Daily Resilience, and The God Cares series. Debbie is also an author of over fifty professional nursing journal articles and two text books in nursing. She writes on a range of issues that often reflect her professional life and personal faith.