When we talk about courage, especially in a biblical context, it's easy to picture someone facing down a lion or leading an army into battle. And while those moments certainly require immense bravery, the Bible's understanding of courage runs much deeper, touching on something more akin to inner strength and unwavering resolve.
Interestingly, you won't often find the exact word "fortitude" in many English Bible translations. However, the concept is absolutely there, woven through words like courage, determination, strength, and perseverance. The root of "fortitude" itself comes from the Latin "fortis," meaning "strong." Dictionaries often describe it as a mental strength that helps us face danger or bear pain and hardship with a steady heart. It's that resilience that kicks in when adversity meets our inner fortitude.
We see this principle beautifully illustrated in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Joshua. As the Israelites stood on the brink of entering the Promised Land, God's repeated command to Joshua was to "be strong and courageous." Why such emphasis? Because they were about to face formidable opposition, people who, at times, made them feel like mere grasshoppers. This wasn't just about physical bravery; it was about trusting God's promises and facing the unknown with a steadfast spirit.
This idea of strength in the face of challenge also resonates with the gift of prophecy, though in a different way. While prophecy is often misunderstood as simply predicting the future, its core meaning, rooted in the Greek word prophēteia, is to "speak forth." It's about delivering God's message for the edification, encouragement, and direction of His people. Think of figures like Moses, Samuel, Elijah, Isaiah, and Agabus. They weren't just fortune-tellers; they were conduits of divine truth, often requiring immense courage to speak God's word, even when it was difficult or unpopular.
Their messages carried divine authority and often demanded a response of faith and obedience. And in delivering these messages, they exemplified a profound courage – the courage to be God's mouthpiece, to stand for truth, and to guide others toward righteousness. As Dr. Wayne Grudem wisely puts it, prophecy "is about calling people to repentance, faith, and obedience," not just satisfying curiosity.
So, biblical courage isn't just about a sudden burst of bravery. It's about a deep-seated strength, a determination to persevere through trials, and the willingness to stand firm in one's faith, even when facing daunting circumstances. It's about leaning on a divine strength that empowers us to move forward, to speak truth, and to live according to God's will, no matter the cost.
