Courage
Linda Soller | Sep 22, 2025
Courage is defined as strength when facing death, illness, or something that you fear. The first two situations are pretty easy for us to imagine. How about the third? In the Bible we are told do not fear over and over again, and yet we find ourselves fearful at times. I think the word hero is overused. I think its value has been watered down. Courage, on the other hand, is not used often enough. We all need to have courage, we all routinely demonstrate courage, and yet it’s like a mystery word. Courage still carries a weight of seriousness that many would rather ignore. Courage implies responsibility to act or respond in a particular way. Usually, it involves doing the right thing, for the right reason, even when you feel fear. The fear may be physical danger, but it may also be not wishing to look foolish in front of others. Two ends of the fear spectrum, both require courage. Courage is an active word, something that is in real time, it’s strong.
One of the clearest verses in the Bible addressing courage is Joshua 1:9 which says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God in with you wherever you go.” It seems so obvious to some and yet many Christians struggle to do the right thing. They struggle to find the courage to live their faith. They doubt that God can really handle their situation. They interpret this literally as in physically going somewhere. But I think it means God is also with us when our minds and feelings take us to a place of fear or uncertainty. In times of conflict, we need to find our courage to be strong. It may mean we recognize and admit when we have been wrong. Courage and being humble go hand in hand. It takes strength, courage and humility to serve others. To be courageous you don’t have to be hurtful or physically commanding. For some just getting out of bed to face another day takes courage. I would say to you, you can do this, God has your back.
Be strong in the Lord, be courageous in your faith, and be kind. You can bring about change even if it’s scary.
Linda
