This is normally a week when many people set goals. Some make resolutions. Others just flip the pages on the calendar and don’t think twice about it. No matter which camp you fall in, I have one request for anyone that would read this. To steal the words of Sara Bareilles….

I want to see you be brave.

That’s it. To each one that would read this, that might mean something different. You know your situation, just as I know what those words mean to me. In 2013 I witnessed so many that were brave. The wife that is suddenly single. The parent watching their child fight for their life. The man that is unemployed doing all he can to hold his family together. They inspired me with their courage and defined what it means to be brave.

In 2014, it’s not that I want to see others struggle, but I do want to see my friends be brave.

I want to see you fight for what you know is right.

I want to see you beat that thing that is chasing you.

I want to see you do things you never thought you could do.

I want to see you say “yes” to things that sound crazy and find the reward afterwards.

I want to see you be brave about what is right when your spirit is screaming “this is wrong!”

Sign up for a race

Face an enemy

Ask the tough questions

Go against the grain if the situation calls for it

Try something new

I’m not just sitting behind the keyboard and making requests. Each of these things apply to me as well. In 2013 I believe I did a few of these things and they cost me. You know what though, I wouldn’t change a single one. When you fight for what is right, I believe there’s honor in being brave. I want you to have that courage and the honor that comes along with it. You might lose some things in the process, but being brave is never easy. It will, however, be worth it.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)

There is tremendous freedom on the other side of your fear.

In 2014, I want to see you be brave.