12-AUGUST-2024 - LESSONS FROM JOAN OF ARC’S TEENAGE YEARS

MAIN THEME IS: WHY AM I HERE?

TITLE: LESSONS FROM JOAN OF ARC’S TEENAGE YEARS

 The quotes for today’s devotional are:

"Have faith in yourself, for you are stronger than you think," – Joan of Arc.

‘’All battles are first won or lost in the mind” – Joan of Arc

“I am not afraid; I was born to do this” - Joan of Arc

Devotional:

Joan of Arc. was a national heroine of France.

At 17 years old, Joan accompanied the army to take the city of Orleans as ordered by the King.

She was a peasant girl who, believing that she was acting under divine guidance, cropped her hair short like a man's, donned a suit of white armour, went to war and successfully helped French troops to victory in March 1429, even after being wounded and suffering in battle.

She became the greatest heroine of her compatriots and was in 1920 canonised a saint.

Lessons from Joan

Courage and Conviction: Joan displayed remarkable bravery and strong conviction in her beliefs.  Her willingness to act on her visions, despite the risks and opposition, highlights the importance of standing firm in one’s convictions.

Breaking Stereotypes: As a teenage girl leading an army, Joan defied the gender norms of her time.  Her story demonstrates the power of breaking societal stereotypes and pursuing one’s goals regardless of conventional expectations.

Leadership and Inspiration: Joan’s ability to inspire and lead others, even as a teenager, shows that leadership is not confined to age or experience.  Her passion and determination rallied troops and inspired a nation.

Resilience in adversity: Joan faced immense challenges, including betrayal, and eventual capture.  Her resilience in the face of adversity is a powerful reminder of the strength needed to persevere through difficult times.

Impact of Faith: Joan’s life underscores the influence of faith in shaping one’s actions and decisions.  Her reliance on divine guidance highlights how faith can provide strength and direction.

Joan’s achievements as a teenager show that young people can make significant contributions to society.  Her story encourages young individuals to believe in their potential and strive for greatness.

Here are a few reflective questions:

  1. Is there a moment when I needed to speak up or take a stand based on my beliefs and values, did I exert confidence and courage in such a moment? 
  2. What can I do differently after this devotional?

Let us pray:

Thank you, Lord, for showing me an example of courage and confidence through Joan’s story, I received the spirit of love, power and a sound mind. Amen

Please say these words of affirmation. Say them, mean them, own them and live them

  •       I am here because I believe in myself. 
  •       I am courageous.
  •       I will not be afraid to do that which I believe in.

Do have an inspiring day. Be good, I’ll see you tomorrow.

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