Commanding Courage

Courage is presently in short supply amongst many so-called Bible-believing, Jesus-loving, Gospel-centered Christians. I should know. I lack it often and am convicted of my transgressions.

Courage is being unafraid to speak the truth no matter the consequence.
Courage is being humbly bold in declaring our true intentions.
Courage is standing strong amidst the growing ranks of those who deny they know Jesus.
Courage is remaining steadfast amidst persecution that is simply inevitable.
Courage is saying no to pressure to conform to conviction-less expectations vs. those of the crucified, risen, and soon to return Savior.
Courage is trusting a blood-bought sacrifice for our sins rather than basking in self-glory and man-centered pursuits.
Courage is denying self and saying yes to Jesus and being unafraid to testify to it.
Courage is being unashamed to admit when we have sinned, throwing ourselves on God's mercy alone.

We do not summon our own courage. It does not originate with us. Jesus commands courage. By that I mean He gives it, applies it, restores it. He supplies it. He strengthens us with it. He builds it into the fiber of our being. And how does He do this? Through the trials and pain of deliberate character building designed to make us more like the Crucified. Jesus commands courage in those whose allegiance to Him is greater than any other. Courage is found where Christ reigns supreme.