Courage in faith is like rock climbing. At the base, the climb looks intimidating, and fear might whisper, “You can’t do this.” But as you grip the rock and take the first step, you trust the rope to hold you, the anchor to secure you, and your guide to direct you.
In the same way, biblical courage isn’t about never feeling fear; it’s about trusting God, the ultimate guide and anchor, who promises to hold you steady and lead you safely, step by step, even when the climb feels impossible.
Our verse for the summer is Joshua 1:9, where God commands, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” When we rely on God’s strength rather than our own, we find the boldness to overcome fear and walk confidently in His will, knowing He is with us every step of the way.
Garfield, Needles of Mount Rushmore
The Bible emphasizes courage in various ways, often encouraging believers to trust God, stand firm in their faith, and act boldly in alignment with His will. Here are four key ways the Bible teaches about courage:
1. Trust in God’s Presence
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4)
Principle: Courage comes from the assurance that God is always with His people. His presence provides strength and dispels fear, even in difficult or dangerous situations.
2. Acting in Obedience to God’s Commands
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)
“We must obey God rather than human beings!” (Acts 5:29)
Principle: True courage often involves stepping out in obedience to God, even when it’s challenging or unpopular. Trusting that His commands lead to ultimate good empowers believers to take bold actions.
3. Relying on God’s Strength
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1)
Principle: Courage is not about personal strength but relying on God’s power. When believers lean on Him, they can face challenges with confidence, knowing He equips them for every task.
4. Focusing on Eternal Hope
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” (2 Corinthians 4:17)
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13)
Principle: Courage is rooted in an eternal perspective. When believers fix their eyes on God’s promises and eternal rewards, temporary fears and challenges lose their grip.
Recently, my husband and I visited Silver Dollar City, where he decided he wanted to ride the roller coaster Time Traveler. Time Traveler isn’t your ordinary coaster. Beyond the deep drops and thrilling loops, the car itself spins and twists with every bend, making it’s stomach churning and somewhat terrifying experience. I had ridden it just a few weeks earlier and, honestly, wasn’t eager to get back on. While I felt a flicker of fear as we boarded, I reminded myself of one simple truth: the ride only lasts about a minute. I told myself, I can handle anything for a minute.
That’s how I try to view my life in light of eternity. One of my favorite hymns, Amazing Grace, captures this perspective so beautifully in its final verse:
When we’ve been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we’d first begun.
In the grand scheme of eternity, our time here is just for a minute. And like I reminded myself on that roller coaster, I can handle anything for a minute. I hold onto this truth during seasons of trial, loss, and pain. Whatever I face, I remember: I can do anything for a minute.
The Bible teaches that courage is not the absence of fear but the presence of faith. It grows as we trust God’s presence, obey His commands, rely on His strength, and focus on eternal hope. This courage enables us to live boldly and faithfully for His glory.
Courage in faith is like rock climbing—intimidating at first, but trusting in the guide, the rope, and the anchor enables you to take the first step and press on. Courage grows when we rely on God’s strength, obey His commands, and focus on His eternal promises. No matter the challenges we face—mountains to climb, storms to weather, or uncertainties ahead—God is with us, empowering us to act boldly, walk confidently, and live faithfully for His glory.