Most of us will admit that it's hard to be brave when we're faced with a terrifying, hopeless situation. Whenever this happens, we might be tempted to just quit or let go, but God encourages us to be brave in the face of problems.
When Joshua replaced Moses as the leader of God's people, God told him to be courageous (see Joshua 1). The task that Joshua faced was an enormous one: he was tasked to lead the Israelites into possessing the promised land. It was so huge and challenging that God had to tell him to be courageous more than once.
What about you? Are you facing a situation or task that terrifies you? Here are some things you can do to help you be brave in front of fearful situations.
1) Remember that God will never leave you nor forsake you
God has promised, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (see Joshua 1:5, Hebrews 13:5). You are not alone because God is beside you - always! He has promised to go with us, and He never breaks a promise. You can count on that.
2) Stand on the truth
After warning His disciples of the trials that they will face in following Him, Jesus encouraged them with the truth that He has already won the victory.
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).
Whatever the challenge we face in standing and contending for our faith, we are assured of peace because Christ has overcome. Revelation 12:11 says, "They triumphed over [Satan] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony."
3) Call on the Lord for help
God is our ever-present Help in times of need (Psalm 46:1). You can call to Him whenever you need His help, most especially in times when what you're facing is way beyond your capacity. God is the God of the impossible. Nothing is too hard for Him to do (see Jeremiah 32:17).
"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" (Isa. 41:10)
Always keep in mind that the love of God will drive away all of the fear in your heart. "God is love ... There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love" (1 John 4:16, 18).
