Ah, the fresh energy that comes with the commencement of a new year! For many, January 1 marks a clean slate to commit to better living. January 1 can also be a time to reflect on everything — triumphs and tragedies, highs and lows, — we’ve been through the past year. There will always be unexpected life challenges and events that occur throughout the year in each of our lives, and in addition to excitement, facing the uncertainties and unknowns of a new year can also cause fear.

I’ve put together five of my favourite Bible verses about courage. Referenced more than 30 times in the Bible, courage is defined as “the ability to do something that frightens one,” and also “strength in the face of pain or grief”. Courage is an attribute that can strengthen hearts and help us successfully navigate life’s challenges.

I hope these verses are an encouragement to you as you embark on your journey through 2015. [All verses are taken from the King James Version, unless otherwise noted.]

Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Moses speaks to Israel and tells them to be strong and of a good courage, to fear not. This verse serves as an awesome reminder that no matter what, God is with us.

Joshua 1:9 “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” In Joshua chapter 1, the Lord commands Joshua to “be strong and of a good courage” three times in the first 10 verses!

Ezra 10:4 “Be of good courage, and do it.” Matter-of-fact and to-the-point.

Psalm 27:14 “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.” I’ve had this verse highlighted in my Bible for years. It’s funny, because typically we wouldn’t think that ‘waiting’ or being patient would require much courage, but in reality, sometimes it requires the most courage of all. Not jumping to our own conclusions, not trying to force or our own will, but waiting patiently and working diligently for God’s best.

Psalm 31:24 “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.” This is the second time that David notes one of the benefits to being of courage: When you have courage, God will strengthen your heart.

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