I stumbled on this image from one of those Facebook name tests a few years ago.

The first three animals I saw were the bear, the eagle, and the lion. The image called this headstrong — a quality often seen as a flaw. Yet as I sat with it, I felt the Holy Spirit whisper that what the world names stubbornness, He often names courage. It is the lion’s roar, the eagle’s vision, the bear’s protective strength.

So much of my life has been lived with this headstrong heart. I throw myself into what I love with fierce devotion. I fight for my family, I defend the broken-hearted, I stand tall against injustice. Sometimes my passion is misunderstood as too much, too fiery, or too strong. Yet God keeps reminding me that He made me this way, not to burn others, but to carry His fire.

The lion teaches me boldness, not in arrogance, but in righteous confidence. The eagle reminds me to rise above earthly battles, fixing my gaze on Jesus and gaining heaven’s perspective. The bear reveals my call to nurture and protect, even when it costs me everything. Together, they show me that headstrong is not a flaw when it is surrendered — it becomes holy resolve.

Yes, there is danger when this fire is misused. My anger, if untethered from grace, can burn too hot. Yet in God’s hands, even this becomes refined. He softens what needs softening, and He sharpens what must remain unyielding.

Holy Spirit, teach me to carry strength with tenderness. Let my roar defend, not destroy. Let my fire refine, not consume. Let my vision be clear, not clouded by pride. For my heart belongs to You, and my strength is safest when it is surrendered at Your feet.

🙌Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for making me bold and strong. Forgive me for the times I have wielded that strength apart from You. Help me to walk in holy courage — bold as a lion, soaring like an eagle, and protective as a bear — yet always tender, always guided by Your love. Let my headstrong fire be surrendered to Your refining flame. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.