What Does the Bible Say About Courage?

Biblical courage is not the absence of fear but trusting God in the face of fear. The most common command in Scripture is 'Do not be afraid.'

Key Verse: Joshua 1:9

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

Old Testament Perspective

From Moses at the Red Sea to Joshua entering Canaan to David facing Goliath, the Old Testament is filled with examples of God-given courage.

New Testament Perspective

The apostles displayed remarkable courage after Pentecost, boldly proclaiming the gospel despite persecution and imprisonment.

15 Key Bible Verses About Courage

Joshua 1:9: "Haven’t I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be dismayed, for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go.”"
Deuteronomy 31:6: "Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or scared of them; for Yahweh your God himself is who goes with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you.”"
Isaiah 41:10: "Don’t you be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness."
Psalm 27:1: "Yahweh is my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear? Yahweh is the strength of my life. Of whom shall I be afraid?"
2 Timothy 1:7: "For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control."
1 Chronicles 28:20: "David said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do it. Don’t be afraid, nor be dismayed; for Yahweh God, even my God, is with you. He will not fail you, nor forsake you, until all the work for the service of Yahweh’s house is finished."
Psalm 31:24: "Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in Yahweh."
Acts 4:29-31: "Now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant to your servants to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of your holy Servant Jesus.” When they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were gathered together. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness."
Psalm 56:3-4: "When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. In God, I praise his word. In God, I put my trust. I will not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?"
Isaiah 43:1-2: "But now Yahweh who created you, Jacob, and he who formed you, Israel says: “Don’t be afraid, for I have redeemed you. I have called you by your name. You are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned, and flame will not scorch you."
Proverbs 28:1: "The wicked flee when no one pursues; but the righteous are as bold as a lion."
Daniel 3:17-18: "If it happens, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image which you have set up.”"
John 16:33: "I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world.”"
1 Corinthians 16:13: "Watch! Stand firm in the faith! Be courageous! Be strong!"
Ephesians 6:10: "Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might."

What Does the Bible Say About Courage?

Key Verse: Joshua 1:9

Old Testament Perspective

New Testament Perspective

15 Key Bible Verses About Courage

Video: What the Bible Says About Courage

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