11 Ways to Be Strong and Courageous

The phrase “be strong and courageous” is familiar to most, even to non-Christians. But what does this mean in a believer’s daily life?

#1 Recognize That God Commands Us to Be Strong and Courageous

Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

These words are recorded as God speaks to Joshua before the Israelites enter the Promised Land. We can claim this command for ourselves as well. Whenever we come to a crossroads or major decisions, or even at the start of each new day, we should be strong in our faith and courageous in our resolve to act faithfully where God has commanded us.

#2 Remember That God Will Reward Our Steadfastness

James 1:12 says, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.”

It can be difficult to hold up under pressure, but God promises to reward us if we do. We do not stand strong simply for the reward, however; God promises this blessing to those who love Him and live for Him. We will all face trials in this life. The question is how we will let our faith guide us through them.

#3 Use God’s Word as a Guide for Living Courageously

Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

When you come to a place of doubt or fear, return to the Scriptures and refresh yourself with the Father’s great and precious promises. This will help guide your steps and provide you with direction down safe paths and embolden you to live faithfully to God.

#4 Know That Jesus Has Already Overcome Our Struggles

John 16:33 says, “I have said these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

This promise from Jesus came just before what many thought was a shocking defeat. However, His death and resurrection for our sins proved to be the greatest victory of all time: the victory over sin and death. So Jesus claiming to have overcome the world is no mere overstatement. It is the glorious truth that He has already defeated the worst that Satan can offer, and we can claim that victory as well.

#5 God Will Be with Us in Times of Trouble

Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

Fear can cause us to question our decisions or doubt our resolve. When we are dismayed, we may be tempted to turn back or yield in defeat. This is not the bold, Spirit-filled life God has in mind for us. He reminds us each day that He is always for us, and is ready to help and strengthen us when we need it. The words of the hymn ring true here: “No power of hell, no scheme of man can ever pluck me from His hand.”

#6 God Can Be a Refuge of Peace as We Go

John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

We may find moments of calm or quiet in the world, but we can never truly find a sense of lasting, fulfilling peace. This only comes from the presence of Jesus Christ in our hearts through the working of the Holy Spirit. When we acknowledge His presence and power to do so, He will fill us with a peace that releases us from worry and anxiety.

#7 We Should Boldly Claim the Victory

Romans 8:37 says, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him Who loved us.”

The apostle Paul unpacks much deep theology in his letter to the Roman believers, but this statement is one of the most powerful. He teaches that no power or trouble or fear can separate us from God’s love, but that through all of these trials we are already conquerors. And more than a slight victory, we can claim total domination over the power of sin through God’s love for us!

#8 God Redeems Us and Calls Us by Name

Isaiah 43:1 says, “But now thus says the LORD, He Who created you, O Jacob, He Who formed you, O Israel: ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are Mine.”

When we doubt God, we can sometimes feel that we are not worthy of His love. Let this verse remind you that God has redeemed and purchased you, and He will not let you go. He knows your name, He can calm every storm in your heart, and He is sufficient for your every weakness.

#9 Being Strong and Courageous Remembers That God Is Greater than Our Adversaries

2 Chronicles 32:7 says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or dismayed before the king of Assyria and all the horde that is with him, for there are more with us than with him.”

Our lives are very busy, and that busyness can feel overwhelming, especially when our faith itself comes under fire. When our resolve is attacked, we should do our best to stand firm on the promises of God. This promise to the people of Israel still rings clear and true today: God is greater than anyone that would come against us, and His power can always save us.

#10 The Powers of This World Cannot Harm Our Souls

Psalm 56:3-4 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. In God, Whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?”

We are not very quick to give our trust to another. Quite often, our trust can be misplaced, and we can feel betrayed. However, by trusting in God and putting our faith in Him, we will never be disappointed. He will always make a way for us, so we can live boldly and courageously knowing that He has already defeated our worst fears. This is how we can have confidence, and live knowing that the world cannot touch us.

#11 We Should Remain Ever Vigilant

1 Corinthians 16:13 says, “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.”

Just because God is all-powerful does not mean that we can relax our vigilance. Being strong and courageous is not only critical in the heat of battle, but it is vital that we keep a sharp eye out for any opportunity Satan has to tempt us. We will never achieve a perfectly sinless life – only Jesus Christ did that – but we can do our very best to watch and pray, and avoid temptations by claiming the promises of God’s redemption.

Author Bio
Natalie Regoli is a child of God, devoted wife, and mother of two boys. She has a Master's Degree in Law from The University of Texas. Natalie has been published in several national journals and has been practicing law for 18 years.