Unleash your Godly Courage - Day 9

Heroes of Faith

The Courage of Conviction

Courage is not always about engaging in physical battles. In fact, some of the most powerful examples of courage can be found in individuals who hear the voice of God and act upon what they believe. In this post, we will explore the concept of courage through the lens of conviction. What does it mean to have the courage of conviction, and how can it shape our lives and impact the world around us?

One of the greatest examples of a life driven by conviction is that of the apostle Paul. Initially, his conviction led him to persecute the church, but a transformative encounter with Christ changed his course. Paul's unwavering belief in Jesus and the power of His love fueled his passion and motivated him to live a life poured out for God and others. (Acts 26:9; II Cor.5:14-15)

In the account of Ezra, we find a powerful example of courage rooted in conviction. The Jews, entrusted with the task of rebuilding the temple, faced opposition and questioning. However, they boldly declared their identity as servants of the God of heaven and earth, standing firm in their conviction and carrying out the work decreed by the king. (Ezra 5&6)

The story of the three Hebrew men who refused to bow down to Nebuchadnezzar's image is a testament to the courage of conviction. Despite the threat of being thrown into a blazing furnace, they unwaveringly proclaimed their trust in God. They made it clear that they would not compromise their faith, regardless of the consequences. (Daniel 3)

Following Jesus' death and ascension, His disciples exemplified the courage of conviction. Peter and John, when faced with opposition, boldly declared their allegiance to God over human authority. They fearlessly shared their firsthand experiences and refused to be silenced, emphasizing the importance of obeying God rather than man. (Acts 4-5)

As believers, we are called to live with the courage of conviction. We must stand firm in our beliefs, holding onto what we have seen and heard from God. Just as others throughout history have taken up causes greater than themselves, we too are challenged to identify the missions in our lives that need our attention and dedication. May we embrace the courage to stand for our convictions, making a lasting impact on the world around us.

• What missions have started in your life that you need to finish?

• What courage of conviction is stirring on the inside of you?

• Has God asked you to take up a cause bigger than yourself?