Have you ever wondered where a person finds the courage to face ridicule, sickness, punishment, death, or even torture? Acts of courage are awe-inspiring, and their source has always fascinated me. What drives someone to hold firm to their beliefs in the face of fear, persevere under persecution, or choose certain death rather than compromise? Let’s explore the courage of conviction, the courage in cancer, and the courage of the cross—and tuck a little courage under our own belts for future battles.
"Having courage does not mean that we are unafraid. Having courage and showing courage mean we face our fears. We are able to say, 'I have fallen, but I will get up.’” Maya Angelou
The Courage of the Conviction
The courage behind America’s founding transcends BBQs and fireworks. When the signers put quill to parchment in 1776, they effectively signed their death warrants. The Declaration of Independence, an act of treason, was punishable by hanging, drawing, and quartering if they failed. Yet, one by one, they chose courage—death over tyranny.
Even greater is the courage of Christ. He knew the excruciating suffering ahead on the cross and yet embraced it willingly, motivated by selfless love.
"Have this in your mind, which was also in Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, didn’t consider equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, yes, the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:5-8
Courage and Cancer
People often call cancer patients courageous. I never felt particularly brave. What I did feel was decisiveness—a determination that looked like courage from the outside. In the quiet of the night, fear was deafening. I forced deep breaths, recited God’s promises, and held tightly to the truth:
“I shall not die, but live and declare the works of the Lord.” — Psalm 118:17 KJV
Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s choosing to act despite fear, weighted with purpose, promise, and hope.
"For the Lord God will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed.” Isaiah 50:7 WEB
The Courage of the Cross
Jesus didn’t have to come to earth, yet He chose humility, suffering, and a humiliating death. Did His human nature doubt? Did He feel weak? Likely. But His resolve never wavered. The promise of reconciliation, the hope of joy, and the love for humanity held Him firm on the cross.
"I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord.” Psalm 118:17 KJV
Courage is a Decision
Courage isn’t just a state of mind—it’s a deliberate choice. It means acknowledging fear, calculating the cost, and still moving forward. Jesus showed us that courage includes enduring trials for the promise of something greater: hope, joy, and eternal reconciliation.
"Looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising its shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2 WEB
Prayer
Jesus, thank You for Your mighty act of love and Your journey of courage to and on the cross. Open my eyes to see what true courage is and help me make courageous choices in my life. Grant me foresight, resolve, and the strength to follow the path You set before me. Thank You for Your sacrifice and the hope it provides.
Poem
Since we just celebrated Independence Day, I thought I’d include the poem below.
