Courage

Courage, as depicted in the Bible, is the mental and moral strength to face danger, fear, or difficulty with faith and trust in God. It is a virtue that is often called upon in the face of adversity and is closely linked to faith and obedience to God's will. The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who demonstrated courage, often in the face of overwhelming odds, by relying on God's promises and strength.

One of the most notable examples of courage in the Bible is found in the account of Joshua. After the death of Moses, Joshua was appointed to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous, assuring him of His presence and support. In Joshua 1:9 , God says, "Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

David, the shepherd boy who became king, also exemplifies courage. His confrontation with Goliath is a classic example of faith-fueled bravery. Despite being young and inexperienced in battle, David trusted in the Lord's deliverance. In 1 Samuel 17:45 , David declares to Goliath, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied."

The New Testament also highlights courage, particularly in the lives of the apostles. After the resurrection of Jesus, the apostles boldly proclaimed the Gospel despite persecution. In Acts 4:13 , the courage of Peter and John is noted: "When they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they marveled and took note that these men had been with Jesus."

Advocacy

Advocacy in the biblical context involves standing up for justice, defending the oppressed, and speaking on behalf of those who cannot speak for themselves. It is an expression of love and righteousness, reflecting God's heart for justice and mercy.

The Old Testament prophets often served as advocates for the poor and marginalized, calling out injustice and urging the people of Israel to return to God's ways. Isaiah 1:17 exhorts, "Learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow."

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the ultimate advocate. His ministry was marked by compassion for the marginalized and a commitment to justice. He defended the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11) and healed on the Sabbath, challenging the legalistic interpretations of the law that neglected mercy and compassion.

The apostle Paul also exemplified advocacy, particularly in his letters where he defended the rights of believers and urged the church to care for one another. In Galatians 6:2 , Paul writes, "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

Furthermore, the Holy Spirit is described as an Advocate in the New Testament. In John 14:16 , Jesus promises, "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever." The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live courageously and advocate for truth and justice in the world.

Courage and advocacy are intertwined in the biblical narrative, as believers are called to stand firm in their faith and speak out for righteousness, trusting in God's presence and power to guide and sustain them.