Proverbs 30.29-31
“Three things are stately in their tread; four are stately in their stride: the lion, which is mightiest among beasts and does not turn back before any; the strutting rooster, the he-goat, and a king whose army is with him.”
Each of these four examples walk in a stately, confident way because of two things: the presence of strength and the absence of fear. The spiritual truth here is that we also can be strong and unafraid if we walk with God and claim his strength and his confidence.
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:11).
Notice this scripture tells us that we are to “be strong in the Lord.” We are not told to be strong in our own might and power. When we claim his strength by faith, then no enemy can defeat us. If we wear the armor of God, then the attacks and fiery darts of the enemy will be turned away.
Here is what Scripture tells us about the source of courage:
From being forgiven and made righteous in Christ: “The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion” (Proverbs 28:1). “Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralytic, ‘Take courage, son; your sins are forgiven'” (Matthew 9:2).
From trusting God and hoping in him: “Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the Lord” (Psalm 31:24).“In God trust; I shall not be afraid. What man can do to me?” (Psalm 56.11)
From being filled with the Spirit: “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness” (Acts 4:31).
Trusting God’s presence, promise, and power: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Knowing the Lord is greater than the adversary: “Be strong and courageous . . . for the one with us is greater than the one with him. With him is only an arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles” (2 Chronicles 32:7–8).
Knowing that God is sovereign over battles: “Be strong, and let us show ourselves courageous for the sake of our people and for the cities of our God; and may the LORD do what is good in His sight” (2 Samuel 10:12).
Seeking God in prayer: “On the day I called, You answered me; You made me bold with strength in my soul” (Psalm 138:3).
The example of others: “Most of the brethren, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear” (Philippians 1:14).
May we be people who are strong in the Lord, and who live and work without fear.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.“ (2 Timothy 1.7)
