Have courage!

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (1 Cor. 15:58 NIV)

Courage: firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty; mettle, spirit, resolution, tenacity mean mental or moral strength to resist opposition, danger, or hardship.

Examples of courage

There are many great examples in the Bible concerning those having courage. To name just three of them: The Hebrew children who stood up to the king, rather than bowing down to an idol, choosing instead to be thrown into a fiery furnace (Daniel:3:1-30). Young David, facing the giant Goliath with only a slingshot and five small stones (2 Sam. 17:1-58). Queen Esther, approaching the king about the attack against her people, the Jews, even though doing so meant she was facing possible death (Book of Esther).

Be strong and courageous in the face of adversity, knowing God goes with you

“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.”  (Deut. 31:6-8 NIV)

A command to be courageous

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:9 ESV)

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.) (Ephesians 6:10)

God provides power, love and self control

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” (2 Tim. 1:7 ESV)