When people hear the term “Courage,” they almost immediately define it as acts of bravery while recalling a few stories supporting this definition. Perhaps David defeating Goliath in battle is most prominent story. Perhaps valiant stories about soldiers from the two world wars come to mind. While “courage” certainly implies acts of valor, it includes much more.
To help effectively define “courage,” I want to clarify what it is not. Courage is not a trait that some possess and some do not. It is a volitional decision, and all of us have the capacity to decide. Many times, courage is a series of small decisions stacked on top of previous ones.
Courage is not some ethereal concept either. It is an action made, usually based on an education of facts combined with the skill of self-discipline. This means it is available to be developed and used.
Lastly, courage often has ties to moral responsibility. Jesus was courageous when he chose the cross because he understood the eternal ramifications if he chose not to. George Washington was courageous because he understood that the ideals of life, liberty, and happiness were at stake. Martin Luther King Jr. courageously stood against centuries of archaic and immoral thinking. Much more could be written about the courage of sacrificial mothers; admirable fathers; teachers who stay after school to tutor failing students; businesspersons who implement unpopular policies that radically improve work culture; and inventors who envision life-changing products when others do not.
Now that we’ve determined what courage is not, let us review five core truths about courage:
- Courage is Proportional to Preserving What We Love
During the first century within the Roman Empire, Christians loved the gospel message and courageously shared it despite persecution that often resulted in death. When people love something strong enough, they generate the dynamism required to defend it. We see this when parents perceive their child is in danger and move to defend them.
- Courage is Proportional to Your Commitment
Those committed to doing what is morally right generate the courage to stand against evil. However, not all evil actions are interested in destroying lives or reputations. Many evils target precious principles such as truth, decency, and freedoms. What the fearful seem to miss is that once principles are destroyed, all that remains is a vacuum where only those who do attack lives and reputations can flourish. How deeply you are committed to the preservations of principles directly influences both your courage and effectiveness. Abraham Lincoln’s stance against slavery is a prime example.
- Courage is the Generator of Hope
A prepared person is a confident person. A confident person acts courageously with the hope that their action will result in something beneficial. Vital missions are advanced based on hope. However, hope is no good if it stands alone. It becomes a platitude if it is not anchored to the faith to act and the courage to persevere against pushback. Orville and Wilbur Wright were confident that man could fly. Despite many failures, the hope in designing a workable airplane was accomplished because they backed that hope with the courage that led to consistent effort to design the airplane.
- Courage Can be Inspired
The story of David’s triumph over Goliath has become part and parcel of Western Culture lore. What often isn’t discussed is how David’s efforts inspired his fellow Israelites. David’s courage did not occur in a one-on-one challenge. It was when two armies were facing each other on a battlefield. After David killed Goliath, his courage was adopted by the entire Israelite army that went on to subsequently win a war. Courage feeds courage. When feuding spouses witness other spouses overcome their challenges and shun divorce, it inspires them to press with determination and courage.
- Courage is a Divine Gift of Empowerment
In the biblical story of Ezekiel, we discover that Ezekiel received an allotment of extraordinary courage from heaven. Ezekiel was informed that he “was made strong against (his opposition)” and instructed to “not be afraid.” What is remarkable within these comments is that even as Ezekiel was commanded to be courageous, we learn that he was also divinely enabled to do so. This means that if courage is a gift, it can be requested. When you find yourself in a weak-kneed moment, don’t be afraid to ask for courage.
Wars are won only when people are energized with tenacious and intentional courage. While courage waxes and wanes, coercive tendencies in society are only growing. We therefore need leaders who model courage if we hope to subdue attacks on unalienable freedoms and responsibilities. Leadership is impact on others. Since every person impacts others, all people are thus “leaders.” Each person reading this article is committed to something and loves someone. Take a stand for them. Lead by example. Lead with courage. The times you feel weak, ask for courage. When you take these steps, you will find yourself feeling more confident while leading an enthusiastic and satisfying life that significantly inspires others.
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This Post is republished on Medium.
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Photo credit: iStock
