Lately I have been hearing and using this French phrase often. It translates best as “Hang in there!” or “Be brave!” and is frequently used in Togolese culture whenever someone is facing a difficulty. Though it’s a phrase the Togolese use routinely, it has also become a phrase that the Lord’s been speaking directly to my heart.
- When more than half of my patients are in a coma due to cerebral malaria…I hear “du courage” from the Great Physician
- When a dental filling falls out while living in the middle of Africa…I hear “du courage” and “Fear not!”
- While waiting for an appointment with a local dentist…I hear “du courage” and “Be strong and very courageous.” (Joshua 1:7)
- When there are 5 pediatric cancer patients in one week needing decisions, treatment, and care…I hear “du courage” from the Giver of all wisdom
- When I stress fractured my foot while running to get out of the rain…I hear “du courage” and “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” (Psalm 37:7)
- While I was using crutches on Africa dirt roads in the midst of rainy season…I hear “du courage” and “The fruit of the Spirit is…patience” (Galatians 5:22)
- When a 2-year-old boy contracts meningococcal meningitis and remains in a coma…I hear “du courage” and “The Lord is faithful in all he does.” (Psalm 33:4b)
In the midst of trials, difficulties, suffering, and even death the Lord continues to speak “du courage…I am with you.” I am encouraged and spurred onwards by the promises found in the Bible, such as in Romans 8:37-39:
“In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
-Shared by a medical missionary
ABWE, Togo South Team 