“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9
Courage is not the absence of fear—it is the triumph over it. It is the quiet strength that carries us through adversity, the resolve to stand firm in our values when it would be easier to remain silent, and the faith to press on even when the path ahead is uncertain.
Courage—also known as Fortitude—is one of the Seven Heavenly Virtues. It empowers us to persevere in doing what is right, especially in the face of trials, suffering, or opposition. This virtue does not shout—it endures. It is present in moments when we choose truth over popularity, love over hate, peace over conflict, and faith over fear.
What Does Courage Look Like?
- The courage to forgive when you have every reason to be angry.
- The courage to begin again when life knocks you down.
- The courage to speak out against injustice, even when your voice shakes.
- The courage to trust when you cannot see the whole picture.
- The courage to live with integrity when no one else is watching.
Courage is found in the daily choices we make—in the mother who prays for her children, the friend who stands up for what is right, the person who keeps going despite grief or loss, and in every heart that chooses hope when it would be easier to give up.
Scripture on Courage
The Bible is full of stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things through the strength God gave them. David stood before Goliath with only a sling and unshakable faith. Esther risked her life to speak up for her people. Paul preached the Gospel boldly even in chains. These are not just stories—they are reminders that the same God who gave them courage walks with us, too.
- “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” — Psalm 27:14
- “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13
- “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” — Psalm 56:3
The Quiet Power of Inner Strength
Sometimes, courage is not loud or visible. Sometimes, it’s the small voice at the end of the day that says, “I’ll try again tomorrow.” It’s in the resilience of those who keep showing up, those who continue to love, serve, and believe despite hardship.
Courage doesn’t guarantee ease or success—it invites us to walk forward with purpose, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
A Short Prayer for Courage:
Lord,
* When I am weak, be my strength. When I am afraid, be my peace. When I feel alone, remind me of Your presence. Grant me the courage to do what is right, To live boldly, love fiercely, and trust You deeply. Amen.*
Daily Affirmation:
I am strong in spirit, brave in heart, and grounded in faith. I choose courage over fear and trust over doubt. I walk forward, knowing I am never alone.“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9
