IncreaseSample

Increase in Courage

I have always read this verse and wondered why God would list the cowardly as one of the groups of individuals who would not inherit the Kingdom of God. I felt it was harsh because, after all, many people are born shy, right? Or, is that just something we have learned to call it?

The word coward describes “a person who lacks the courage to do or endure dangerous or unpleasant things.” But in the context of Scripture, being cowardly is more than simply feeling afraid, or being shy—it is allowing fear to rule our hearts to the point of denying our faith or refusing to stand for what is right.

God has not called His people to live in fear. The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:7:

“For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power, love, and a sound mind.”

To tolerate a spirit of intimidation or timidity is to live beneath our divine calling. We are meant to walk boldly in the power of the Holy Spirit—filled with His love and grounded in a sound, steadfast mind.

In these Last Days, courage is not optional—it’s essential. We must cultivate a spirit of boldness and train the next generation to stand firm in truth, love, and righteousness. To do this, we must understand who we are in Christ and know the authority we carry.

Reflections & Application:

1. Daily disciplines–Boldness is developed in us as we spend intimate time with the Father, building ourselves up in your most holy faith and growing in assurance of His word.

• How much time are you spending in prayer and reading your word? How consistent are you?
• Keep your eyes fixed on Christ–Let his presence steady your heart.

2. What areas in your life compete for your attention? Ask God how you can guard against them.

• Share the Good News–Open your mouth and declare the gospel with confidence.

3. Who can you share the good news with today? Where is your area of influence? (i.e., family, neighbors, store, work)

• Meditate on this scripture throughout the week, declaring it over you and your family.
• “And pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel.” — Ephesians 6:19 (NASB1995)

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come before you in repentance for tolerating a spirit of intimidation and for allowing insecurity to silence our voices. Reveal to us the roots of fear and unbelief in our hearts. Open our spiritual eyes and understanding, Lord, as your word declares.

We bind the spirit of fear in the mighty name of Jesus—fear, you have no power or place here! Fill us instead with boldness to proclaim your word and courage to endure whatever comes. Thank you, Lord, for your deliverance and for the power of your Spirit within us to do what you have called us to do. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.