For the Faithful
Courage
Doing what is right despite personal risk
Our current faith‑based resources are written from a Christian perspective, but we know that many other faith traditions also nurture strong character, and we want to honor and uplift that diversity.
We are actively seeking contributors from additional faith traditions who would like to help us expand this section. If you are interested, we would be grateful to partner with you.
Courage empowers believers to stand for truth and love even when it is difficult.
When we act with conviction, we honor God and strengthen the faith of others. Courage reflects the boldness of those who trust in God’s presence.
Essay
Everyday Courage
by Rev. Dr. Roger Braun, Retired Methodist Minister, guest columnist
Courage is not only found on a battlefield. It is a characteristic that is needed often in normal living. What does courage look like? In the Bible there is a man by the name of Elijah. He lived 3,000 years ago in the land of Israel. He was a God worshiping man who was being chased by his own people for worshiping only one God. He was fleeing from those that wanted to harm him and he winded up in the desert hiding in a cave.
He was so confused that he cried out to God saying, “O God, I wish you would take my life for I am the only one left in all of Israel who worships you and the people want to harm me.” Responding to this cry for help God spoke to him in the cave saying, “There are hundreds of people in Israel who have not stopped worshiping me. You are not alone and I will never leave you. Now leave this cave and tell all of Israel that I live.” Now, filled with a different kind courage, Elijah did as he was commanded.
Elijah shows us two kinds of courage. Elijah had the courage to admit he needed help. Often the hardest thing to do in life is seeking help from others. When our lives become confusing and full of hurt, it takes courage to admit that help from others is needed, What stops us from being courageous and asking for help is the idea that “I am alone.” You are not alone. Talk to other people and you will discover that other people have gone through what you are going through. You are not alone.
The second kind of courage Elijah had was the courage to continue. He had important things to do. Now, filled with assurance that he was not alone and he was needed, he left his cave and proceeded, with courage, to fulfill his destiny.
Courage is a characteristic that you will need for your entire life.
Affirmations for the Christian
I have the courage to do what is right because God strengthens me, even when doing what is easy feels tempting.
I ask for help when I feel afraid, trusting that God places people in my life to support me.
I stand with others who choose what is right, encouraging them as God encourages me.
I am willing to stand alone for what is right, knowing God is always with me.
I use the courage God gives me to protect and speak up for those who are bullied or mistreated.
Courage Resource Library
The Links below will take you to Resources, like activities, reflections, and visuals you can use personally or in your faith organization to encourage the Character Quality of Courage.
Courage Verses
Want to deepen your understanding of Courage through Scripture? Explore our collection of Courage Bible Verses for inspiration and reflection.
