“…because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

Mark 6:50

Merriam Webster’s dictionary defines “courage” as the “mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.” The Greek word translated “courage” in Mark 6:50 literally means to have “boldness and confidence.” Whenever God commands courage (boldness), he also provides a reason for that courage. The reason is God himself, his character, his promises, and his plans for his people. Consider the following examples:

• God tells Abram: “Fear not, I am your shield” (Genesis 15:1)

• The angel of the Lord tells Hagar: “Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is.” (Genesis 21:17)

• But Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid, stand firm, and see the deliverance that the LORD will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians whom you see today you shall never see again.” (Exodus 14:13)

• God tells the Israelites: Fear not, …I am the One who helps you.” (Isaiah 41:14)

In each of the approximately 365 incidences where we see God commanding courage in the Bible, he does so not because it is natural for man to be bold and confident, and not because we are such giants of faith, but because God is willing, guiding and protecting humanity in all those circumstances.

As we navigate life and work this week, God is still commanding us all to “Fear not.” He is calling us to be bold and confident in the face of wars and rumors of wars, in the face of disease and pestilences, and in the face of betrayal and increasing wickedness. He is calling us to venture out in the face of all manner of uncertainty, and he is calling us to persevere in the face of every kind of hardship. Why? Because he is the Almighty God -the One who gives us strength in every situation.

In what areas of your life is God calling you to exhibit courage?

Let us pray: Lord, you know the battles that lie ahead of us. Some days, the spirit of fear tries to grip our hearts, but today we choose to trust you. Fill us with supernatural courage to face every challenge with strength and confidence in you. Remind us, once again, that we are not alone, for you go before us and stand beside us in every area of life. When we feel weak, be our fortress. Let your perfect love cast out every fear. We declare that we are bold and courageous through Christ who strengthens us. Amen.