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Samson was known for his strength (Judges 16:28), and Solomon for his wisdom (1 Kings 4:29–30). Yet when the topic of godly courage is raised, Joshua often comes to mind.
Thankfully for Joshua, he was regularly encouraged by God, being reminded not to fear his adversaries or what was ahead, but to remain faithful to the Lord. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). With such assurance, Joshua became a skilled warrior, an impressive military leader, and a faithful servant of God.
In the New Testament, Paul endured great suffering and eventually martyrdom with courage (2 Timothy 4:6–8). He followed in the same path as Stephen, the first martyr recorded outside of Christ (Acts 7:59–60). Godly courage can face martyrdom, enduring physical pain and suffering for the sake of Christ. It can also be seen in standing up against injustice, no matter the cost.
The abolitionists displayed this kind of courage, speaking out against the evil of slavery, with some even giving their lives. Similarly, helping one’s neighbor, as seen in the account of the Good Samaritan, requires courage (Luke 10:33–34).
However, godly courage is not always displayed before kings or armies. Sometimes it is seen in simple obedience, in doing what is right when it would be easier to walk away.
Jesus reminded His followers that the world would hate them, because their priorities and ideals would differ from His (John 15:18–19). This should not surprise us. If our lives are truly aligned with Christ, we should expect opposition. And what better way to stand firm against persecution than through godly courage?
The basis of maintaining and exercising godly courage is found only in Jesus Christ. Is Christ truly the Savior and Lord of this world? If the answer is yes, then that alone establishes a foundation requiring His ways to be superior to our own. Jesus commanded His followers, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). He also told a man in the book of Luke, “Leave the dead to bury their own dead” (Luke 9:60), pointing to the cost of discipleship.
Being heavily focused alone provides courage.
Joshua was human, like you and me. Surely, he had moments of fear and doubt. Yet he exercised the courage that God gave him, knowing that only the Lord remains faithful in a fallen world. From Moses before Pharaoh (Exodus 10:28–29), to John exiled on Patmos (Revelation 1:9), courage is a consistent theme throughout Scripture. Modern believers also continue this witness, placing all their trust, worries, and direction in God’s hands (1 Peter 5:7).
Courage is not about self-confidence but God-confidence, built always in Him from Him.
“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1). Godly courage begins and ends with Him.