Aimee – March  2025 

I’ve been pondering the concept of courage- of what it is to have it and how we get it. I think Courage is one of the many concepts that we can read in scripture but hold a worldly understanding of and in doing so we handicap ourselves and don’t walk in the fullness that He has for us.

If your understanding of courage is that of our culture, you’ll define it like this –

The Merriam-Webster definition of courage is:

Courage (noun):

1. The mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.
2. The ability to do something that you know is difficult or dangerous.

It emphasizes the mental and moral aspects of bravery, highlighting the strength needed to face challenges, fear, or hardship.

In the world, courage is often seen as self-reliance — a person who faces fear head-on through sheer strength, confidence, or willpower. It’s pushing through challenges on your own, proving your toughness, and overcoming obstacles with grit. Culture celebrates those who stand strong despite fear, telling you “just do it” or “never give up.” Seeing courage as a quality we must build within ourselves and generate internally.

But this isn’t the way scripture describes it at all.

In the Bible, courage isn’t about self-sufficiency or bravado. It’s relying on God. Biblical courage recognizes our weaknesses and calls us to trust that God is with us, strengthening us for what’s ahead. It never requires us to pretend to be fearless, but enables us in the stepping out in faith, knowing that God’s presence and promises are the source of our strength.

While the world might encourage you to dig deep within, the Bible teaches us to look beyond ourselves and lean on God, trusting in His power to face what’s in front of us. “Take courage” in the Bible is a command, not to feel brave, but to step up when you’re scared or unsure, knowing God’s got your back. It’s trusting God to give you the strength you need to face whatever’s coming. The very act of “taking courage” tells us that its substance isn’t internally generated but something that is received like a gift from God.

This means,

In our weakness – He is our strength

In our anxiety – He is our peace

In our lack – He is our provision

In our confusion – He is the plan.

We see this so often in scripture –

Joshua 1:9 – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid; don’t be discouraged. The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua’s about to lead a whole nation into danger, but God’s saying: “Don’t worry. I’m with you.” Courage isn’t being fearless, rather it’s knowing WHO God is in relation to your situation and that He’s right beside you.

Psalm 27:14 – “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”

Sometimes, courage is waiting. It’s trusting that God’s timing will come, even if you’re feeling stuck or anxiety is tapping on your shoulder.

Isaiah 41:10 – “Don’t fear, for I’m with you; I will strengthen you. I will help you; I’ll uphold you with my right hand.”

Gods got this. No need to fear, because He’s the one holding you up. Courage comes when we rely on Him, not our own power. When we recognize His sovereignty over our circumstance.

Matthew 9:2 – “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.”

Jesus speaks to a paralyzed man, not just about healing his body, but about the healing of his soul. Courage can come from knowing you’re forgiven and that’s powerful. When forgiveness shatters shame, it makes room for relationship with God who is the source of courage. It draws us closer into His heart and we see Him more clearly.

John 16:33 “In this world you’ll have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Jesus is saying: Yeah, life’s going to be hard sometimes. But I’ve already won. Take courage, because His victory gives us the strength to face whatever may come.

Acts 23:11 “The following night, the Lord stood near Paul and said, ‘Take courage! As you’ve testified about me here, you’ll testify in Rome.’”

Paul’s in danger, facing a really tough road. But God says,Stay strong, you’ve got work to do. Courage is moving forward in your calling, no matter the risk. Courage is obedience.It’s choosing to listen to Gods voice not fears whispers.

“Take Courage” isn’t proving your toughness, boldness, strength or your capacity. It’s actually an outward display of your reliance and surrender.

-It’s a call to act when you’re scared, knowing God’s presence makes all the difference. Courage is stepping out in faith, not because you’re strong, but because God is.

– It’s rooted in God’s promises. Courage isn’t pulling yourself together; it’s resting in God’s strength and His presence with you.

– It’s tied to your purpose. When you face challenges, take courage because you’re doing what God has called you to do, and He’ll see you through.

How to take courage while your knees are shaking !?

-Remind yourself of God’s promises. When you’re afraid, bring up verses that remind you He’s with you and won’t let you go.

– Pray for His strength. When you’re running on empty, ask God for the courage to keep going.

– Look back on God’s faithfulness. Think about times He’s come through before and let that build your faith to face the future.

– Embrace your purpose, Courage is about stepping into the calling God’s given you, even when it feels impossible.

– and most importantly fix your eyes!

Keep your focus on His face, stay in His presence and remain. As Jesus’ kids we have a source where our strength is found, where our hope comes from.

Abide – He has what you need to walk what He asked you to walk.

 Be blessed,

Aimee

Bold Existence Team