Definition and Overview:
Living in confidence, from a biblical perspective, refers to the assurance and trust that believers have in God and His promises. This confidence is not based on human abilities or circumstances but is rooted in faith in God's character, His Word, and His faithfulness. It encompasses a life marked by trust, boldness, and assurance in God's plan and purpose.

Biblical Foundation:

1. Confidence in God:
The Bible frequently encourages believers to place their confidence in God rather than in human strength or wisdom. Jeremiah 17:7 states, "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is indeed in the LORD." This verse highlights the blessing that comes from relying on God as the ultimate source of security and strength.

2. Confidence through Faith:
Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." This assurance is the foundation of a confident life, as believers trust in the unseen realities of God's promises. Hebrews 10:35-36 further exhorts, "So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward. You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised."

3. Confidence in Salvation:
The New Testament assures believers of their salvation and eternal security in Christ. 1 John 5:13 states, "I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life." This knowledge provides a profound confidence in one's relationship with God and the assurance of eternal life.

4. Confidence in Prayer:
Believers are encouraged to approach God with confidence in prayer. Hebrews 4:16 invites, "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." This confidence is based on the understanding that Jesus, as our High Priest, intercedes for us.

5. Confidence in God's Provision:
Jesus taught His followers to trust in God's provision, as seen in Matthew 6:25-34. He reassures them not to worry about their needs, emphasizing that God knows and provides for them. Philippians 4:19 echoes this promise: "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

6. Confidence in Facing Trials:
The Bible encourages believers to maintain confidence even in the face of trials and challenges. James 1:2-4 advises, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." This perspective allows believers to face difficulties with a confident expectation of growth and maturity.

Examples of Confidence in Scripture:

· David: In 1 Samuel 17, David's confidence in God is evident as he faces Goliath. Despite the odds, David declares, "The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine" (1 Samuel 17:37).

· Daniel: Daniel's unwavering confidence in God is demonstrated when he continues to pray despite the king's decree, resulting in his deliverance from the lions' den (Daniel 6).

· Paul: The Apostle Paul exemplifies confidence in God's purpose and plan, even amidst suffering. In Philippians 1:6, he writes, "being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

Practical Application:

Living in confidence involves daily reliance on God's promises and character. Believers are called to cultivate a deep trust in God through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and obedience to His commands. This confidence is not passive but active, influencing how one approaches life's challenges, relationships, and decisions. By anchoring their lives in the truth of God's Word, believers can experience the peace and assurance that come from living in confidence.