35 Important Bible Verses About Having Courage (With Commentary)

Courage is an important part of our lives as Christians. It helps us face tough situations and stand strong in our faith, even when things get hard. The Bible is filled with verses that remind us to be brave and trust in God. These verses can encourage us during difficult times and help us remember that we are never alone.

Today, we’ll look at some powerful Bible verses about having courage. Each verse has a special message that can uplift our spirits and give us strength. Whether you are facing challenges at school, home, or in your relationships, these scriptures can guide you to be bold and fearless in your journey.

Bible Verses About Having Courage

Trusting God’s Presence

As we strive to have courage in our lives, we often find ourselves needing to remember that God is always with us. Trusting in God’s presence means that no matter the situation we face, we can find peace in knowing that He walks alongside us. This belief helps us to face our fears and challenges head-on. When we feel afraid or overwhelmed, we can lean on these verses to remind us that we are not alone and that His strength is our strength.

Joshua 1:9

“Have I not commanded you? 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

This verse comes straight from God’s instruction to Joshua. It’s a clear command to be brave and strong. We are reassured that God’s presence accompanies us in every situation we face. No matter where we go or what we encounter, we are not alone.

Isaiah 41:10

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

This powerful promise from God reminds us that He is our support. We can find courage because He is ready to strengthen and uphold us in times of difficulty. This verse encourages us that we truly have a Helper at our side.

Psalms 27:1

“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” – Psalms 27:1

This verse is like a shield against fear. David reminds us how God serves as our light and salvation. When we confront darkness and uncertainty, it becomes clear that with God, we have nothing to fear.

Hebrews 13:5-6

“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’ So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?’” – Hebrews 13:5-6

This verse reminds us of God’s perpetual presence in our lives. The assurance that He will never abandon us fuels our courage and enables us to face any challenge. Our confidence can grow because God is our helper.

Matthew 28:20

“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:20

In these words, Jesus reassures us that He is always with us. This is an everlasting promise that fills us with courage. No matter the challenges we face, we know He stands with us until the very end.

Finding Strength in Faith

Having faith is deeply intertwined with building and embracing courage. When we put our faith in God, we realize that He is more powerful than any challenge we may face. These verses teach us that our strength doesn’t come from ourselves but from our unwavering trust in God. The more we cultivate this sense of faith, the more courage we find in our hearts to stand tall and face life’s trials.

Philippians 4:13

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13

This verse declares that our strength comes directly from Christ. When we face challenges, we can lean on Him for the courage to overcome. Our dependence on His power is what enables us to do great things.

Psalm 31:24

“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.” – Psalm 31:24

This verse encourages us to remain strong and courageous. Hope in the Lord fuels our strength, and it’s a reminder to stay faithful during tough moments. Our faith gives us the resilience we need to keep moving forward.

2 Timothy 1:7

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and self-discipline.” – 2 Timothy 1:7

This scripture highlights that fear does not come from God. Instead, He gifts us with power and love. When we recognize this, we can confront our situations with courage and make wise decisions.

Isaiah 40:31

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

Here, we are invited to place our trust in God. Renewed strength from Him allows us to face challenges without growing tired. The image of soaring like eagles encourages us to rise above our worries and fears.

Romans 8:31

“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” – Romans 8:31

This verse reassures us that God is on our side. When we recognize His support, it gives us courage against any opposition. We can approach life with confidence knowing that we are not fighting alone.

Overcoming Fear

Fear can often paralyze us and hold us back from taking bold steps in our lives. The Bible addresses fear numerous times, providing comfort and calling us to overcome it with courage. By understanding that fear is a part of our human experience, we can use God’s word to combat it. These verses remind us that courage is not the absence of fear but the decision to move forward in faith despite it.

2 Chronicles 20:15

“He said: ‘Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.” – 2 Chronicles 20:15

This verse is a declaration of God’s sovereignty in the face of overwhelming odds. It tells us not to succumb to fear. Instead, we should trust that God is fighting our battles and therefore we can rise with boldness.

Psalms 56:3

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” – Psalms 56:3

In moments of fear, this verse encourages us to turn our hearts toward God. Trust becomes an act of courage when we face challenges. He invites us to hand over our fears and find safety in Him.

Mark 5:36

“Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, ‘Don’t be afraid; just believe.'” – Mark 5:36

In this story, Jesus calls us to let go of fear and put our faith in Him. It shows that we have control over our fears if we choose to believe in His power. Courage and belief can coexist beautifully.

1 John 4:18

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” – 1 John 4:18

This passage reveals how love transforms fear. As we understand God’s love for us, we gain the courage to stand firm. Fear diminishes in the presence of love, allowing us to walk confidently.

Proverbs 3:25-26

“Have no fear of sudden danger or of the ruin of the wicked, when it comes, for the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught.” – Proverbs 3:25-26

This wise counsel encourages us to relinquish fear in the face of uncertainty. Our confidence rests in God’s protection. With Him as our foundation, we can step through life’s challenges with courage.

Courage in Adversity

Life is not always easy, and we will inevitably face struggles that test our perseverance and faith. These struggles can serve as opportunities to display our courage. When we look to scripture, we see how others have faced adversity with bravery and determination. We are encouraged to find inspiration in these stories and recognize that we too can stand strong amidst our trials.

James 1:2-4

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:2-4

This verse invites us to view challenges as joyful experiences. In facing trials, we develop perseverance, which strengthens our faith and courage. It helps shift our perspective on adversity.

2 Corinthians 12:9

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9

Here, Paul shares that our weaknesses can lead to God’s empowering grace. Recognizing our limitations gives us the courage to seek God’s strength in our challenges. His power is magnified in our struggles.

Romans 5:3-4

“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” – Romans 5:3-4

This passage teaches us to embrace our sufferings. Each hardship paves the way to building character and deepening hope. It shows us that courage is born out of struggles, leading us to greater resilience.

Philippians 1:28

“Without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.” – Philippians 1:28

Paul reminds us that courage often shines brightest in opposition. By holding firm against adversity, we send a strong message of confidence rooted in God. Our faith stands as a safe harbor through storms.

1 Peter 5:10

“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” – 1 Peter 5:10

This verse assures us that God will restore us after seasons of suffering. It encourages us that courage through difficulty leads us into a renewed state of strength and standing firm in faith.

Courage in Witnessing

As Christians, sharing our faith can be daunting. When we choose to witness for Christ, we may face criticism or rejection. However, scripture encourages us to be bold and courageous, emphasizing the importance of sharing the message of God’s love. Strengthening ourselves in these verses helps us step out in confidence, knowing we are doing what God calls us to do.

Acts 4:29

“Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.” – Acts 4:29

This prayer demonstrates the need for courage when sharing the gospel. We can ask God to grant us boldness to speak His truth despite external challenges. It inspires us to step out in faith.

2 Timothy 1:8

“So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.” – 2 Timothy 1:8

Here, Paul encourages us to stand firm in our faith. We should not shy away from sharing our testimony, regardless of challenges. Embracing our identity in Christ gives us courage to share His love.

Matthew 10:32

“Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.” – Matthew 10:32

In this verse, we learn the significance of professing our faith. When we boldly speak of Christ, He recognizes us in Heaven. This motivates us to find courage in proclaiming our beliefs.

Romans 1:16

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” – Romans 1:16

This scripture asserts the power of the gospel. Paul’s unwavering conviction encourages us to share our faith freely. We can find courage in knowing that the message of Christ brings hope and salvation.

1 Thessalonians 2:2

“We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, but with the help of our God, we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:2

This verse illustrates the reality of witnessing amid opposition. Paul and his companions showed great courage as they spread the gospel. It serves as a reminder that we can lean on God for help in our missions.

Courage in Daily Living

Walking in courage isn’t limited to monumental moments or challenges. Instead, it can be in our everyday choices and actions. Making choices that align with our faith can sometimes take great courage. Daily living with integrity, compassion, and faith showcases the courage we can embody in our daily routines. These verses inspire us to live our lives boldly in Christ.

Colossians 3:23-24

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.” – Colossians 3:23-24

This verse inspires us to live with dedication each day. By recognizing that our work is for God, we cultivate courage in our actions. It encourages us to act confidently in everything we do.

Romans 12:2

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is…” – Romans 12:2

This verse calls us to be brave in living a transformed life. Choosing not to conform takes courage. With God’s help, we can embrace our uniqueness and discern His perfect will for our lives.

Galatians 6:9

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

This scripture motivates us not to grow weary in our good deeds. It encourages persistent courage in doing what is right. We trust that our efforts will produce fruit in due time if we remain steadfast.

Ephesians 6:10

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” – Ephesians 6:10

This verse is a strong call to action for daily strength. We are reminded to rely on God’s power. Courage in daily living rests on our ability to draw on His strength and guidance.

1 Corinthians 16:13

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” – 1 Corinthians 16:13

Paul encourages us to stay vigilant in faith. This call to courage challenges us to stand firm in our beliefs and to embrace strength in our actions. It serves as a rallying cry to live boldly in Christ.

Final Thoughts

Courage is a vital element in our journey of faith as Christians. The verses we’ve explored remind us that courage is not simply about being fearless; it’s having the resolve to confront our fears with faith. By trusting in God’s presence, finding strength in our faith, overcoming fear, and being courageous in adversity, we empower ourselves to be witnesses to His love. Courage also shapes our daily lives, guiding us in making choices that reflect our beliefs.

As we continue to grow and learn, let’s remember the power of these Bible verses and how they can encourage us in times of uncertainty and challenge. We can lean on God’s promises to explore our faith with bravery and integrity. Whether facing significant trials or daily decisions, we have the potential to live courageously.

If you want to read more about staying resilient, don’t miss our articles on grit and determination and overcoming fear. These topics can also help us grow in our faith and courage.