Courage and bravery are virtues frequently extolled in the Bible, representing the strength and resolve to face fear, danger, or adversity with faith and trust in God. These qualities are not merely physical but are deeply rooted in spiritual conviction and reliance on God's promises and presence.

Old Testament Examples

1. Joshua: One of the most prominent figures associated with courage is Joshua, who succeeded Moses as the leader of Israel. God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous multiple times as he prepares to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. 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." Joshua's courage is demonstrated through his unwavering obedience to God's commands and his leadership in the conquest of Canaan.

2. David: The young shepherd boy who would become king, David, exemplifies bravery in his encounter with Goliath. Despite the fear that gripped the Israelite army, David's faith in God gave him the courage to confront the giant. 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."

3. Daniel: Daniel's courage is evident in his refusal to cease praying to God despite the king's edict that led to his being thrown into the lions' den. His bravery is rooted in his steadfast faith and trust in God's deliverance, as seen in Daniel 6:23 , where it is noted that "no wound was found on him, because he had trusted in his God."

New Testament Teachings

1. Jesus Christ: The ultimate example of courage is found in Jesus Christ, who faced the cross with resolve and obedience to the Father's will. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prays in Matthew 26:39 , "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will." His bravery is seen in His willingness to endure suffering for the salvation of humanity.

2. The Apostles: The early apostles displayed remarkable courage in the face of persecution. In Acts 4:13 , the boldness 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." Their courage was fueled by the Holy Spirit and their conviction in the truth of the Gospel.

3. Paul: The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of courage in his epistles, encouraging believers to stand firm in their faith. In 1 Corinthians 16:13 , he exhorts, "Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong." Paul's own life, marked by trials and persecutions, serves as a testament to his bravery and unwavering commitment to Christ.

Theological Insights

Courage in the biblical sense is not the absence of fear but the presence of faith. It is the strength to act in accordance with God's will, even when faced with daunting challenges. This courage is often accompanied by a deep sense of peace and assurance that comes from trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness. As believers, the source of courage is found in the promises of God and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. The Bible consistently encourages believers to "be strong and courageous," reminding them that God is with them, as seen in Deuteronomy 31:6 : "Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you."

Courage and bravery, therefore, are not merely human attributes but are deeply intertwined with a life of faith and reliance on God. They are essential for living out the Christian faith in a world that often opposes the values of the Kingdom of God.