How to Measure Courage

Daily Devotional – Wednesday, May 24, 2023
If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.
Proverbs 24:10 (NKJV)

Maya Angelou, the late American poet, memoirist and civil rights activist, once said, “Courage is the most important of all the virtues, because without courage you can’t practice any other virtue consistently. You can practice any virtue erratically, but nothing consistently without courage.”

Bravery is not Optional

While this assertion may appear to be an exaggeration, we cannot underestimate the importance of valor in life. Now, we always discuss audacity in the face of adversity. This implies that challenges are inevitable and so is bravery. Indeed, the tougher the situation, the more courage you need.

A good example in the Bible is Joshua. Moses is dead and God appoints Joshua to fill Moses’ big shoes. The Promised Land is full of hostile people but the new leader must conquer. The people Joshua is leading are the querulous, riotous type. What is one of the most critical qualities Joshua needs in this situation?

Be Strong and of Good Courage

It is audacity. In Joshua 1:1-9, God tells Joshua three times, “Be strong and of good courage.” (Verses 6, 7 & 9). Perhaps Maya Angelou had Joshua in mind when she said courage is the most important virtue. Without valor, Israel’s new leader could not lead the people to Canaan.

Aristotle, the renowned Greek Philosopher echoes the Bible and Maya when he states, “You will never do anything in this world without courage. It is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor.”

The Measure of Courage

King Solomon adds another twist to the issue by identifying when bravery is most needful. He says, “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.” (Proverbs 24:10). Your strength is small is you are impatient or you buckle up under challenges.

What do you do when hard times come your way? The measure of courage is your ability to stay strong, hold on to God and overcome your adversity. Jesus assures you, “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33). Whatever challenge life throws at you today, stand strong and face it, knowing God is with you through it all.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, give me courage to face any challenges I encounter today and emerge a winner.