The piece of advice most often repeated in the bible, more than 365 times, is “Do not be afraid!” David fighting Goliath, Gideon fighting an army of 135,000 with only 300 men, or Jesus holding his ground against the religious and political leaders of his time—all examples showing that with God, anything is possible. Being courageous doesn’t necessarily mean not being afraid, but rather moving forward despite the fear we may feel. Our Father knows our limits, and that’s why he gave us “power, love and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7). The Holy Spirit in us serves as encouragement in the face of challenges that can make us feel weak. Here are 10 bible verses to encourage us to dare to exceed our limits.

10 bible passages to encourage us to go forth with faith

Be brave, God is with you

“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:7)

Faith will lead you to victory

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

Be brave, God knows you

“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.” (Isaiah 49:15-16)

Nothing is impossible for one who has faith

“ ‘If you can?’ said Jesus. ‘Everything is possible for one who believes.” (Mark 9:23)

Go forth, the Lord beckons

“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”  Jesus said to him:  “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.” (Matthew 14:28-29)

Pray with faith, God will listen

“Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:23-24)

Do not be afraid, God lives within you

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)

Do not be afraid, God loves you

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Luke 12:6-7)

Our Father has a wonderful plan for you

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
 
  “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.” But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord. (Jeremiah 1:5-8)

FAQ About Courage in the Bible

Which psalm can I pray for courage?

"You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday."
These verses come from Psalm 91:5–6, a psalm that reminds us how God’s protection enables us to face any situation. With Him, we need not fear life’s storms.

What verse can encourage a loved one?

To strengthen someone in need of courage, share these words from Joshua 1:9:
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Who are examples of courage in the Bible?

Scripture is filled with courageous men and women:

• Old Testament heroes:

  • Abraham, who left everything to follow God’s call.

  • Moses, who led a nation through the wilderness.

  • David, who faced the giant Goliath.

• New Testament examples:

  • Jesus, who transformed history through His love, even unto death.

  • The Apostles, who endured exile and martyrdom to spread the Gospel.