How can I be more courageous?

November 13th 2025 | 5693 views 

Courage is not the absence of fear; rather, it is a deliberate process of action, spiritual reliance and psychological reframing. Courage is ACTION in the presence of fear. If fear arises (and it will), the courageous action is to pause and acknowledge the discomfort rather than run away from it.

Courage means walking towards what you would rather run away from. This definition offers hope because it means anyone can be courageous; it is not about being fearless.

Courage involves leaving our comfort zone (where everything is known and easy) and moving into the growth zone (where possibility, potential and evolution reside). The growth zone is uncomfortable but does not cause panic.

Courage is demonstrated through immediate and unquestioning compliance with God's commands. For example, when Elijah was told to show himself to King Ahab, he showed instant and unambiguous obedience, following the will of God.

We suggest a three-step process for courage: Feel, Face, Embrace

1. Feel: You must first feel what you would rather not feel. Acknowledge the physical sensations of fear (light tightness, butterflies, increased heart rate). By pausing and feeling it, you have already begun the courageous action because you did not run away from the discomfort.

2. Face: To face the fear is to name it and call it what it is ("I am afraid of failure").

3. Embrace: To embrace the experience is to move toward it, not ignore or obliterate it. This involves asking, "What's the plan? How do I remain in a forward motion in spite of my discomfort and choose to walk towards what I would rather run away from?"

True, godly courage is fueled by reliance on God's power and influence. Prayer is crucial for finding strength. Draw near with confidence to the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16). God has not given Christians a spirit of timidity (fearfulness or cowardice), but one of power, love and discipline (2 Timothy 1:7).

Courage is inspired by hope. Fixing our eyes on Jesus, who endured hostility and the cross for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2), prevents us from growing weary and losing heart.

Remember the promise to Joshua in Joshua 1:9: "Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." This assurance allows us to access the heavenly Father and be fearless.

Since fear is a primary obstacle to courage, overcoming it is essential. Fear is a tool of Satan. Faith provides the tools to fight fear and brings legitimate trust that helps even justifiable fear subside. One practical suggestion for finding courage is to picture yourself walking side by side with Jesus toward what you want to run away from.

Hope gives the opportunity to replace fear’s slavery with inclusion in the family of God and replaces fear's corruption with freedom. If shame or intimidation (which provokes fear) is placed upon you by the world, realize that standing for Christ makes it a badge of honor. Focusing energy outward on mutual strengthening and passionately caring for others helps move away from self-focused anxiety. Serving others gives you something of value in return and helps heal fear and loneliness.

Additional Resource:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #954: “Elijah (Part I) The Power of Courage”
Applying the extraordinary courage of Elijah to our lives

Episode #915: “What Does Courage Look Like?”
How courage works and how it can work for us

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