DIVINE COURAGE

Title: DIVINE COURAGE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Joshua 1:9
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Supporting Texts: 2 Timothy 1:7, Deuteronomy 31:6, Isaiah 41:10, 1 Corinthians 16:13, Psalm 27:1

INTRODUCTION:
Divine courage is the supernatural strength and boldness that comes from trusting in God's presence and promises. It empowers believers to face challenges, overcome fears, and step into the unknown with faith. This sermon explores the concept of divine courage, showing how it enables us to live victoriously and fulfill God's purposes for our lives, despite the obstacles that may arise.

1. THE SOURCE OF DIVINE COURAGE

a) God's Command to Be Courageous:
Divine courage begins with God’s command to be strong and courageous. It’s not just an option but a divine mandate (Joshua 1:9).

b) Empowered by the Holy Spirit:
God’s Spirit provides the strength and courage we need to face difficult situations without fear (2 Timothy 1:7).

c) Confidence in God's Presence:
Courage is birthed when we are assured that God is with us, as His presence dispels fear and empowers us (Isaiah 41:10).

d) Rooted in Faith in God’s Promises:
Knowing that God is faithful to His promises gives us courage to face the challenges ahead (Deuteronomy 31:6).

e) Biblical Example: David’s courage to face Goliath stemmed from his confidence in God's power and faithfulness (1 Samuel 17:45-47).

2. DIVINE COURAGE IN THE FACE OF FEAR

a) Overcoming the Fear of Failure:
Divine courage enables us to press on even when the fear of failure tries to paralyze us. We are assured of God’s help in our endeavors (Psalm 27:1).

b) Conquering the Fear of Rejection:
When faced with rejection or opposition, divine courage empowers us to stand firm, knowing that God’s approval is all that matters (Romans 8:31).

c) Courage to Speak Out in Difficult Times:
Divine courage gives us the boldness to speak the truth, even when it’s unpopular or risky (Ephesians 6:19-20).

d) Courage to Stand for What is Right:
We gain courage to live righteously and uphold justice, even when the world around us falls into compromise (Proverbs 28:1).

e) Biblical Example: Esther's courage to approach the king on behalf of her people, despite the risk to her life (Esther 4:16).

3. THE ROLE OF DIVINE COURAGE IN SPIRITUAL VICTORY

a) Boldness to Conquer the Enemy:
With divine courage, we can face spiritual battles with confidence, knowing that God has equipped us for victory (1 John 4:4).

b) Strength to Endure Persecution:
Divine courage enables us to endure persecution for righteousness’ sake, trusting that God will reward our faithfulness (Matthew 5:10-12).

c) Courage to Stand Firm in Faith:
We are called to stand firm in our faith, and divine courage helps us to resist the temptation to compromise (1 Corinthians 16:13).

d) Boldness to Pray and Intercede:
With divine courage, we can approach God's throne of grace boldly in prayer, knowing that He hears and answers us (Hebrews 4:16).

e) Biblical Example: The early church’s courage to preach the gospel, despite threats and persecution, resulting in many coming to faith (Acts 4:29-31).

4. THE OUTWORKING OF DIVINE COURAGE IN DAILY LIFE

a) Courage to Take Bold Steps of Faith:
Divine courage encourages us to step out in faith, even when the path is unclear, trusting God to guide us (Hebrews 11:8).

b) Courage to Lead and Influence Others:
God gives divine courage to those in leadership, empowering them to lead with integrity and influence others for His kingdom (Joshua 1:6-7).

c) Courage to Step Into New Opportunities:
Divine courage opens the door to new opportunities, enabling us to walk into new seasons with confidence (Isaiah 43:19).

d) Courage to Let Go of the Past:
With divine courage, we can leave behind past hurts, mistakes, and fears, pressing forward to the future God has for us (Philippians 3:13-14).

e) Biblical Example: Abraham's courage to leave his familiar surroundings and follow God’s call to an unknown land (Genesis 12:1-4).

5. RECEIVING DIVINE COURAGE IN EVERY SITUATION

a) Courage to Face the Unknown:
When the future seems uncertain, divine courage helps us to trust in God’s perfect plan and timing (Proverbs 3:5-6).

b) Courage to Overcome Personal Weaknesses:
Divine courage empowers us to overcome personal limitations and weaknesses, relying on God’s strength (2 Corinthians 12:9).

c) Courage to Make Difficult Decisions:
With divine courage, we can make difficult decisions, knowing that God is guiding us and giving us wisdom (James 1:5).

d) Courage to Trust God in All Things:
Even when circumstances seem impossible, divine courage reminds us that we can trust God with every detail of our lives (Romans 8:28).

e) Biblical Example: Gideon’s courage to lead Israel against the Midianites, despite feeling inadequate (Judges 6:14-16).

CONCLUSION:
Divine courage is not just a human quality; it is a gift from God that enables us to face life’s challenges with faith and strength. It empowers us to overcome fear, stand firm in our faith, and take bold steps in our spiritual journey. As believers, we must rely on God’s courage to live victoriously, knowing that He has equipped us for every battle. Let us embrace the divine courage that comes from trusting in God's promises, presence, and power.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the courage to overcome all fears and walk boldly in Your calling for my life.

2. I declare that I will not be afraid of failure, for You are with me to help me succeed.

3. Father, help me to stand firm in my faith and not be moved by the pressures of the world.

4. Lord, give me the courage to speak Your truth, even when it is unpopular.

5. I pray for boldness to take the steps of faith You are calling me to, even in uncertain times.

6. Father, help me to endure persecution with divine courage, knowing that You will reward my faithfulness.

7. I declare that I will be a bold witness of Your love and grace in every situation.

8. Lord, give me the courage to lead others with integrity and influence them for Your kingdom.

9. Father, help me to let go of past hurts and move forward with courage into the future You have prepared for me.

10. I thank You, Lord, for filling me with divine courage to face every challenge with faith and confidence.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will receive divine courage to overcome every fear that has held you back.

2. Divine courage will empower you to make bold moves and take new opportunities that align with God’s will for your life.

3. You will stand firm in your faith, unwavering in the face of challenges.

4. Divine courage will fill you with boldness to speak the truth and stand for righteousness.

5. God is giving you the strength to endure trials and persecutions with courage, knowing He is with you.

6. You will lead with courage and influence others for God's kingdom.

7. Every spirit of fear and discouragement is being replaced with divine courage in your life.

8. You will take bold steps of faith, trusting God to guide and empower you.

9. Divine courage will help you to overcome your weaknesses and limitations, as you rely on God’s strength.

10. You will walk in divine courage, knowing that God is with you every step of the way.