Courage… what is it, and why do we need it?
Wikipedia (not always a great reference, but let’s go with it) defines courage as: “Courage is the choice and willingness to confront agony, pain, danger, uncertainty, or intimidation.”
Courage is not a lack of fear. It’s self-control in the face of possibly terrifying situations. It’s a choice to act rightly in spite of one’s fears, rather than giving in to our natural instincts of self-preservation.
We need to develop strong convictions and courage, because the time is coming when we will surely need them. Thankfully, we don’t have to rely on our own resources. God has already given us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).
In addition, if we wait on God and put our hope in Him, He will strengthen our hearts:
“Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” (Psalms 27:14)
“Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.” (Psalms 31:24)
What is the opposite of courage? Cowardice. It’s letting our fears control our actions, and failing to do the right thing because we’re afraid of the pain or consequences we will face for being courageous.
Why does it matter? Because cowards are despised on earth, and then barred from Heaven:
“But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” Revelation 21:8 (NKJV)
Beginning today, let’s all work on developing our courage. We can begin by putting our hope in God, waiting on Him, and asking Him to strengthen our hearts.
May God bless you as you pursue Him!
Jamie