50 Bible Verses About Courage

Introduction to 50 Bible Verses About Courage

For instance, in the heartening words of 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,” we find a powerful command that encapsulates the essence of biblical courage. It’s not merely about the absence of fear, but the presence of a profound strength that comes from knowing God is with us in every step of our journey. This theme is echoed throughout these Bible verses about courage, offering a continuous reminder that our bravery is deeply intertwined with our faith and trust in God. 

In the intricate mosaic of biblical wisdom, the theme of courage stands out as a fundamental virtue, essential for navigating the complexities and challenges of life. This collection of 50 Bible verses about courage offers a profound exploration of bravery, resilience, and faith, drawing from the wisdom and experiences encapsulated in the Scriptures. Each verse serves as a beacon, guiding believers through the ebbs and flows of life’s journey with a steadfast heart and unwavering spirit. 

Furthermore, these verses also reflect the multifaceted nature of courage as seen in the Bible. For example, in 2 Timothy 1:7, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline,” we see that biblical courage encompasses more than just bold actions; it is about the power of love, the strength of self-discipline, and the ability to face adversities with a calm and determined spirit. It is a courage that is as much about inner strength as it is about external displays of bravery. 

Similarly, the Psalms offer profound insights into the emotional depth of courage. Verses like Psalm 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?” provide a poetic reflection on the source of our courage. They remind us that amidst the shadows and uncertainties of life, it is the unwavering light of God’s presence that dispels fear and instills a quiet yet powerful sense of courage. 

In essence, these 50 Bible verses about courage are not just isolated words of encouragement; they form a mosaic of guidance, each piece contributing to a larger picture of what it means to live courageously. They challenge us to look beyond our fears, to act with integrity and boldness, and to place our trust in the divine assurance that we are never alone in our struggles. Whether facing personal trials, standing up for justice, leading others with integrity, or enduring hardships, these verses offer timeless wisdom and enduring comfort for anyone seeking to embody the virtue of courage in their daily walk of faith. 

Courage in Facing Adversity

This category explores the profound theme of finding courage in the midst of adversity. The selected verses serve as a powerful reminder of the unwavering strength and protection that believers can access through their trust in God. Facing adversity, be it in personal tribulations, confronting injustice, or enduring trials, often brings feelings of fear and vulnerability. However, these passages encourage us to look beyond our immediate circumstances and draw courage from a higher source. They teach us that with God’s presence, even the most daunting obstacles can be faced with a composed and courageous heart. These scriptures are not just words of comfort, but a call to action – to confront our adversities with faith and resilience, assured of God’s unfailing support and guidance. 

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. NIV

In Other Words: Haven’t I commanded you? Be brave and strong. Fear not, nor be disheartened, for your Lord, your God, is with you wherever you venture. 

One-Line Summary: Trust in God’s presence and command to be strong and fearless. 

Psalm 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? 

In Other Words: The Lord is my illumination and salvation—whom shall I dread? The Lord is the fortress of my existence—of whom shall I be scared? 

One-Line Summary: Find fearlessness in God being our light and protector. 

Psalm 31:24

Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord. 

In Other Words: Stay firm and be encouraged, all who await the Lord. 

One-Line Summary: Encourages strength and heart in those who hope in the Lord. 

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. 

In Other Words: Fear not, for I am alongside you; do not look anxiously around, for I am your God. I will fortify you and assist you; I will sustain you with my righteous right hand. 

One-Line Summary: Assurance of God’s support and strength in times of fear. 

2 Timothy 1:7

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 

In Other Words: For the Spirit given to us by God is not one of fear, but one of power, love, and self-control. 

One-Line Summary: God’s spirit empowers us with strength, love, and self-discipline. 

Psalm 118:6

The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? 

In Other Words: he Lord stands with me; I will not fear. What can mere humans do to me? 

One-Line Summary: With the Lord’s support, there is no need to fear others. 

1 Chronicles 28:20

Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. 

In Other Words: Be brave and strong, and do the task. Fear not, nor be dismayed, for the Lord God, my God, accompanies you. 

One-Line Summary: Be strong and do God’s work without fear. 

Psalm 112:7

They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. 

In Other Words: They fear not ill news; their hearts are firm, trusting in the Lord. 

One-Line Summary: Trust in the Lord removes fear of bad news. 

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. 

In Other Words: Trust wholeheartedly in the Lord and do not rely on your own insight; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will straighten your paths. 

One-Line Summary: Trust in the Lord for guidance in every aspect of life. 

1 Peter 5:7

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 

In Other Words: Throw all your worries onto him because he cares for you. 

One-Line Summary: Cast all worries onto God because he cares for you. 

Courage in Faith

The verses in this section delve deeply into the courage that emerges from a profound and unwavering faith in God. They illustrate how faith is not a passive state but an active and dynamic force that instills strength, confidence, and fortitude in believers. In situations where the odds seem insurmountable, where the path forward is unclear, or where the pressures of the world threaten to overwhelm, these scriptures remind us that faith in God provides a foundation of courage that can withstand any challenge. This courage is not just about facing fears but about stepping out in faith, doing the extraordinary, and trusting in the divine plan. The verses encourage believers to embrace a boldness of spirit, empowered by a deep trust in God’s promises and a commitment to living out their faith in every aspect of their lives. 

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. NIV

In Other Words: Faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the conviction of things unseen. 

One-Line Summary: Faith is being sure of our hopes and certain of the unseen. 

Ephesians 6:10

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 

In Other Words: At last, be fortified in the Lord and in the power of his might. 

One-Line Summary: Draw strength from the Lord’s immense power. 

Philippians 4:13

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. 

In Other Words: Through him who empowers me, I can achieve all things. 

One-Line Summary: Through Christ, we have the strength for all things. 

Matthew 19:26

Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’ 

In Other Words: Jesus said, ‘For mortals it’s impossible, but with God, everything is possible.’ 

One-Line Summary: With God, things impossible for humans become possible. 

Romans 8:31

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 

In Other Words: What shall we then say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 

One-Line Summary: If God supports us, no one can successfully oppose us. 

Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. 

In Other Words: Be firm and brave. Do not fear nor be in dread of them, for the Lord your God is with you; he won’t fail you or forsake you. 

One-Line Summary: Be strong, brave, and reassured of God’s constant presence. 

2 Corinthians 5:7

For we live by faith, not by sight. 

In Other Words: For we conduct our lives by faith, not by sight. 

One-Line Summary: Live by faith rather than what is seen. 

Hebrews 11:6

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. 

In Other Words: Without faith it’s impossible to be pleasing to God, for whoever approaches him must believe that he exists and rewards those who earnestly seek him. 

One-Line Summary: Faith is essential to please God and receive his rewards. 

Romans 15:13

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. 

In Other Words: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in him, so you may abound in hope through the Holy Spirit’s power. 

One-Line Summary: Trust in God to be filled with joy, peace, and hope. 

2 Corinthians 12:9

But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ 

In Other Words: And he said, ‘My grace is enough for you, for my strength is perfected in weakness.’ 

One-Line Summary: God’s grace is sufficient, especially in our weakness. 

Courage in Leadership

This collection of verses offers profound insights into the courage required for effective and righteous leadership. Leadership, in its essence, is a journey filled with challenges that demand bravery, wisdom, and integrity. These scriptures provide guidance for leading in a way that is honorable and God-centered, emphasizing the importance of leading by example. They speak to the heart of what it means to be a courageous leader – one who stands firm in the face of adversity, makes difficult decisions with moral clarity, and inspires others through their own strength of character. The verses remind us that true leadership is not about power or control, but about serving others with humility and courage, guided by divine wisdom and a steadfast commitment to doing what is right and just. 

Exodus 14:13

Moses answered the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today.’ 

In Other Words: Moses told the people, ‘Do not fear. Stand firm and see the Lord’s salvation that he will show you today.’ 

One-Line Summary: Stand firm and witness God’s deliverance in adversity. 

1 Samuel 17:37

The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine. 

In Other Words: The Lord who saved me from the lion’s and bear’s paw will rescue me from this Philistine’s hand. 

One-Line Summary: God’s past deliverance assures future protection. 

2 Samuel 10:12

Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. The Lord will do what is good in his sight. 

In Other Words: Let’s be strong and fight valiantly for our people and the cities of our God. And may the Lord do what seems good to him. 

One-Line Summary: Fight bravely, trusting in God’s will. 

Nehemiah 6:11

But I said, ‘Should a man like me run away? Or should someone like me go into the temple to save his life? I will not go!’ 

In Other Words: I said, ‘Should someone like me flee? Or should one like me enter the temple to save his life? I will not go!’ 

One-Line Summary:  A leader should not run from threats but stand firm. 

Proverbs 28:1

The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion. 

In Other Words: The evil run with no one chasing, but the just are as bold as a lion. 

One-Line Summary: The righteous have the courage of a lion. 

Acts 4:29

Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 

In Other Words: Now, Lord, look on their threats and grant your servants boldness to speak your word. 

One-Line Summary: Pray for boldness in proclaiming God’s word. 

1 Kings 2:2

‘I am about to go the way of all the earth,’ he said. ‘So be strong, act like a man.’ 

In Other Words: ‘I’m going the way of all the earth,’ he said. ‘Be strong, behave like a man.’ 

One-Line Summary: Encouragement to be strong and act with integrity. 

Ezra 10:4

Rise up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it. 

In Other Words: Arise; this matter is in your hands. We are with you, so be courageous and act. 

One-Line Summary: Take charge and act courageously with support from others. 

Daniel 3:16-18

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, ‘King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter.’ 

In Other Words: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered, ‘King Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to respond to you in this matter.’ 

One-Line Summary: Refusal to defend faith against a king, trusting in God. 

Acts 27:25

So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me. 

In Other Words: So take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be exactly as I have been told. 

One-Line Summary: Keep faith in God’s promises during difficult times. 

Courage in Witnessing

In this listing, the verses focus on the courage required to openly and boldly witness one’s faith. The act of witnessing – sharing one’s beliefs, experiences, and the message of the Gospel – often requires stepping out of comfort zones and facing potential criticism or rejection. These scriptures call on believers to be steadfast in their commitment to spreading the Word, equipped with the Holy Spirit’s power and guided by truth and love. They remind us that witnessing is not just a responsibility but a privilege – an opportunity to be instruments of God’s grace, offering hope and light in a world that can often be dark and uncertain. The courage to witness is about more than just speaking words; it’s about living a life that exemplifies Christ’s teachings and being a beacon of faith through actions as well as words. 

Acts 1:8

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. 

In Other Words: But when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will receive power and will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. 

One-Line Summary: The Holy Spirit empowers believers to witness everywhere. 

Matthew 28:19-20

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 

In Other Words: Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 

One-Line Summary: Command to spread the gospel to all nations. 

2 Timothy 2:15

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 

In Other Words: Strive to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker unashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 

One-Line Summary: Be diligent and unashamed in presenting God’s truth. 

Acts 4:31

After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. 

In Other Words: When they had prayed, the place they were gathered was shaken. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and declared God’s word with boldness. 

One-Line Summary: Prayer leads to boldness in speaking God’s word. 

1 Peter 3:15

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. 

In Other Words: Yet honor Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to offer a defense to everyone who asks you for a reason for the hope within you. 

One-Line Summary: Be ready to explain your hope in Christ. 

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. 

In Other Words: I am not embarrassed about the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. 

One-Line Summary: The gospel is a powerful tool for salvation, not to be ashamed of. 

Mark 16:15

He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’ 

In Other Words: And he said to them, ‘Go into the entire world and proclaim the gospel to every creature.’ 

One-Line Summary: Jesus’ directive to preach to every creature. 

Luke 12:8

I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. 

In Other Words: I tell you, whoever confesses me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before God’s angels. 

One-Line Summary: Public confession of Christ leads to heavenly acknowledgment. 

John 15:27

And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning. 

In Other Words: You also must bear witness because you have been with me from the beginning. 

One-Line Summary: Believers are called to testify about their experience with Christ. 

Acts 13:47

For this is what the Lord has commanded us: ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’ 

In Other Words: For the Lord has commanded us, saying, ‘I have set you as a light to the Gentiles, that you should bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’ 

One-Line Summary: Christians are called to be a light, bringing salvation globally. 

Courage in Trials and Hardships

The verses in this category provide deep insights into the courage needed to endure trials and hardships. Life’s journey inevitably includes periods of suffering, grief, and testing. These scriptures offer not only comfort but also a perspective that transforms our understanding of trials. They teach us that enduring hardships is not merely about survival, but about growth and refinement of character. These trials are depicted not as random misfortunes but as part of a divine process that shapes us, strengthens our faith, and brings us closer to God. The courage to face these challenges is rooted in the assurance of God’s love and the hope of eternal reward. These verses encourage believers to view their trials as opportunities to develop perseverance, faith, and a deeper understanding of God’s purpose and presence in their lives. 

James 1:12

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. 

In Other Words: Blessed is the one who endures trials, for when they have stood the test, they will receive the crown of life, as promised by the Lord to those who love him. 

One-Line Summary: Blessings come from enduring trials faithfully. 

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. 

In Other Words: Not only this, but we also exult in our troubles, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. 

One-Line Summary: Suffering leads to perseverance, character, and hope. 

1 Peter 4:16

However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 

In Other Words: If you are reproached for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 

One-Line Summary: Suffering for Christ should be met with praise, not shame. 

2 Corinthians 4:8-9

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair. 

In Other Words: We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair. 

One-Line Summary: Despite troubles, we are not defeated or despairing. 

Philippians 1:29

For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him. 

In Other Words: For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not just to believe in him, but also to suffer for his sake. 

One-Line Summary: Suffering for Christ is a privilege granted to believers. 

2 Thessalonians 1:5

All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering. 

In Other Words: This is evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be deemed worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering. 

One-Line Summary: Suffering for God’s kingdom is a mark of worthiness. 

Acts 5:41

The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 

In Other Words: They departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. 

One-Line Summary: Joy found in being deemed worthy to suffer for Christ. 

1 Peter 1:6-7

In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 

In Other Words: In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials. 

One-Line Summary: Trials test and refine faith, leading to praise and glory. 

Romans 8:17

Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. 

In Other Words: And if we are children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. 

One-Line Summary: Suffering with Christ allows us to also share in His glory. 

Hebrews 12:7

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 

In Other Words: Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children, for what child is not disciplined by their father? 

One-Line Summary: Hardships should be endured as disciplinary lessons from God. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, this collection of 50 Bible verses about courage serves as a profound testament to the strength, resilience, and faith that are central to the Christian journey. These verses not only offer encouragement but also challenge us to embody the courage that is so deeply valued in the Scriptures. As we reflect on these Bible verses about courage, we find ourselves equipped with the wisdom and fortitude needed to navigate the trials and tribulations of life.

Consider the words in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength,” which encapsulate the empowering nature of divine support in our pursuit of courage. Similarly, in Psalm 112:7, “They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord,” we find reassurance in the unwavering faith that anchors our courage. These verses, along with others in this collection, remind us that true courage is not a momentary burst of bravery but a sustained state of heart and mind, rooted in trust and reliance on God. 

Moreover, verses like Psalm 56:3, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you,” highlight the human aspect of fear and the divine solution of trust, providing a realistic yet hopeful perspective on dealing with our fears. And in Romans 8:31, “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” we are reminded of the ultimate victory and support we have in God, which is the source of our deepest courage. 

In essence, these Bible verses about courage are not just passages to read; they are truths to live by. They call us to rise above our fears, to face challenges with a heart fortified by faith, and to walk confidently in the path God has laid out for us, knowing that His presence is our constant source of strength and courage. As we continue on our life’s journey, let us carry the wisdom of these Bible verses about courage in our hearts, allowing them to shape our actions, decisions, and the way we interact with the world around us. 

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Courage Bible Verses

A Prayer Inspired by Courage Bible Verses

In moments when our hearts seek solace and our spirits yearn for strength, we turn to the timeless wisdom of Scripture. The Bible verses about courage remind us of the unshakeable strength that comes from our faith in God. They encourage us to face life’s trials with a brave heart and a steadfast spirit, reassured by God’s constant presence and unwavering love. In this prayer, let us draw upon these scriptures to seek the courage and peace only He can provide.

Our Prayer Inspired by Our Selection of Bible Verses About Courage

Heavenly Father,

We come before You today, hearts filled with hopes and minds burdened with fears, seeking the courage You have promised in Your Word. Just as You reminded Joshua to be “strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:9), we seek that same strength to face the challenges before us.

Lord, in moments of fear and uncertainty, remind us of Your ever-present support. Like David, who proclaimed, “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1), help us to find our courage in the light of Your presence. In the face of adversity, let us remember that “God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).

Grant us the bravery to witness to our faith with boldness, as the apostles did, filled with Your Spirit (Acts 1:8). In moments of decision-making, guide us with Your wisdom, as You instructed in Proverbs 3:5-6, to trust in You with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding.

In our struggles and trials, help us to embrace the lessons and growth they bring, as James taught us to consider it “pure joy when we face trials of many kinds” (James 1:2). May our hearts be steadfast, trusting in You, unwavering in the face of bad news, just as the Psalmist assures us (Psalm 112:7).

And in times of anxiety and worry, we recall the words of Philippians 4:6-7, asking for the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, to guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus.

In all things, Lord, we seek the courage that comes from knowing You are with us, guiding us, and loving us, unwavering and constant. May we walk in faith, strengthened by Your Word, and emboldened by Your Spirit.

In Jesus’ Name, we pray,

Amen.