"COURAGE"
Hebrew Definitions:
- Amats – "To be alert, strong, prevail, fortify, steadfastly minded" (Strong's #553).
- Chazaq – "To seize, be strong, fortify, conquer, force, hold fast, prevail, seize, be urgent, and behave valiantly" (Strong's #2388).
Courage in the Bible
The words "courage" and "courageous" have various meanings in the Bible and extra-biblical writings. In Greek, the terms occur in two forms: θαρρέω and θαρσέω. Both terms mean "to dare," "to be bold," "to be of good courage," and "to be confident."
In the Scriptures, these words always imply "to be of good courage," "to be confident," and "not to be afraid."
Courage Summons
In the Old Testament, we see various summons to courage. For example, Moses tells the Israelites in Exodus 14:13:
"Fear not, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD..."
Haggai 2:4 also calls for courage:
"Yet now be strong, alert, and courageous, O Zerubbabel... Joshua... all you people of the land... for I am with you, says the LORD of hosts."
Be Strong and Courageous
God repeatedly commands His people to "Be strong and courageous." In Deuteronomy 31:6, Moses tells Joshua:
"Be strong, courageous, and firm... for it is the LORD your God who goes with you."
In Joshua 1:6, God commands Joshua:
"Be strong and of good courage."
This command is not a suggestion but a divine order.
Jesus and Courage
Jesus often called for courage in His followers. In Matthew 9:2, Jesus says:
"Take courage."
In John 16:33, He provides a profound encouragement:
"In the world, you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world."
New Testament and Courage
In Acts 28:15, we find an example of renewed courage:
"When Paul saw them, he thanked God and received new courage."
Paul uses the Greek word θάρσος (tharsos) which means "daring; boldness." This boldness comes from the Holy Spirit and is crucial, especially in times of fear.
Paul’s Example
Paul consistently exhibited courage in preaching the Gospel despite opposition. In 1 Thessalonians 2:1-6, he declares:
"We were bold in our God to speak unto you the Gospel of God with much contention."
Even when faced with persecution, Paul spoke boldly, emphasizing the importance of proclaiming the truth without compromise.
Conclusion
Christians are called to be valiant, bold, daring, and courageous for both the Lord and the Gospel. In these challenging times, we must press on, exercising the courage that God commands.
