Courage is a fundamental virtue in the Christian life, often depicted in Scripture as essential for faithfulness and obedience to God. It is the quality that enables believers to face danger, fear, or difficulty with confidence and resolve, grounded in trust in God's promises and presence.

Biblical Examples of Courage

1. Joshua: One of the most prominent examples of courage in the Bible is Joshua, who succeeded Moses as the leader of Israel. God commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous as he led the Israelites into the Promised Land. In Joshua 1:9 , God reassures him, "Have I not commanded you? 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 was rooted in his faith in God's presence and promises.

2. David: As a young shepherd, David displayed remarkable courage when he faced Goliath, the Philistine giant. His confidence was not in his own strength but in the Lord. In 1 Samuel 17:45 , David declares, "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." David's courage was a testament to his unwavering faith in God's power.

3. Daniel: Daniel's courage is evident when he defied the king's decree and continued to pray to God, knowing the consequences could be dire. His trust in God was greater than his fear of the lions' den. Daniel 6:10 states, "Now when Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house, where the windows of his upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before."

Courage in the New Testament

1. The Apostles: The early apostles exhibited courage as they proclaimed the Gospel in the face of persecution. In Acts 4:13 , the boldness of Peter and John astonished the Sanhedrin, as they recognized that these men had been with Jesus. Their courage was fueled by the Holy Spirit and their conviction in the truth of the resurrection.

2. Paul: The Apostle Paul is another exemplar of courage. Despite numerous hardships, including imprisonment and beatings, Paul remained steadfast in his mission. In 2 Timothy 1:7 , he writes, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control." Paul's courage was a reflection of his reliance on the Spirit and his commitment to Christ.

Theological Insights on Courage

Courage in the Christian context is not merely human bravery but is deeply connected to faith and trust in God. It is the strength to act in accordance with God's will, even when faced with opposition or danger. Courage is often accompanied by a sense of peace and assurance that comes from knowing God is sovereign and faithful.

Encouragement to Be Courageous

Believers are repeatedly encouraged in Scripture to be courageous. In 1 Corinthians 16:13 , Paul exhorts the church, "Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong." This call to courage is a reminder that the Christian life involves spiritual battles that require strength and perseverance.

Courage and the Fear of the Lord

True courage is often linked with the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). This reverential awe and respect for God provide the foundation for courage, as believers understand that their ultimate allegiance is to God, who is greater than any earthly power or threat.

Conclusion

Courage is an indispensable quality for Christians, enabling them to live out their faith boldly and faithfully. It is nurtured through a deep relationship with God, reliance on His promises, and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit.