Introductory Thoughts
Courage originates within the heart of the individual. Two chief witnesses testify to this truth: (1) The English word courage comes from a word plainly connected to the heart, and (2) MultipleBible passages associate courage with the heart (Numbers 32:7, 9; Deuteronomy 1:28; Psalm 27:4; Psalm 31:24). The scripture declares in our passage that the hearts of the people melted as they lost courage (i.e., they lost strength). Other Bible passages associate courage with the strengthening of the heart (Psalm 27:14; Psalm 31:24). These truths illustrate that courage reflects strength of heart and that courage is based upon faith, hope, and trust in God.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): What are some of the feelings you have when you are afraid? The Bible describes this as our hearts melting. It's a sinking feeling. Many times we want to run away from things that make us afraid. However, when we have courage, our hearts feel strong inside as if we could do anything because of Gods help.
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(For everyone): Knowing that courage means the strengthening of the heart, do you think courage is always a good thing? Are there times when a strong heart could trigger a rebellious spirit toward God?
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Would you consider yourself to be a courageous person? What do you think would help you to have the right type of attitude in this matter?
Prayer Thoughts
- Christians should display courage to the world and to other believers. Ask God to strengthen your heart so that you have a courageous spirit.
- Ask the Lord to show you things in your life that would help to build godly courage as well as things that might be destroying your courage.
Song
We Rest On Thee
