Fear can grip us when doing the right thing feels hard. Maybe you’ve stayed silent when someone needed help or felt too afraid to speak the truth at work. Many of us has Christians struggle with lack of courage in tough moments. I’ve been there facing big decisions that made my heart race. But we don’t have to face these fears on our own.
Courage doesn’t mean we aren’t afraid. It means trusting God even when our knees shake. Scripture reminds us of this: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. God never asks us to act alone. And He gives His Spirit so we’re not ruled by fear. In this post, we’ll look at four prayers to help you find courage inspired by biblical heroes Moses, Joshua, Abigail, and the Good Samaritan. Each story shows a real person facing fear and choosing faith. Read on for prayers, reflection questions, and an interactive quiz to strengthen your Christian living with the courage to do what’s right.
1. Prayer: Courage to Follow God’s Calling (Moses’s Story)
When God called Moses from the burning bush, Moses felt completely unqualified. He asked God, “Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh?” Moses was afraid, his excuses rushing out. But God promised to be with him. In Exodus, God said He would lead and empower Moses, even when Moses doubted himself. Like Moses, we sometimes feel too ordinary or scared to step into God’s plan. Maybe you’re facing a chance to stand up for truth or take on a new responsibility. Remember: God didn’t call Moses because Moses was strong He called him because He would make him strong. We can ask God for the same courage.
Prayer: Heavenly Father Lord Jesus, I know I am weak and afraid, just like Moses was. Yet You’ve promised to be with me. Give me boldness to follow Your calling. Remind me that You are stronger than my fears. Help me do the right thing today, not by my strength, but through Yours. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
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When has fear made you hesitate to obey what God is calling you to do?
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How might God use you if you trust Him with a scary situation?
2. Prayer: Courage to Lead Well (Joshua’s Story)
After Moses died, God spoke to Joshua and commanded him, “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go”. Joshua was about to lead Israel into the Promised Land, a huge, daunting task. He needed boldness every day. In our lives, stepping into new roles at home, work, or church can feel like our own “Promised Land” challenge. Sometimes the future is unknown and people expect things from us. We can draw strength from Joshua’s example and promise. We do not have to lead or decide on our own; God empowers us to act justly and confidently.
Prayer: Gracious God and our savior Lord Jesus Christ, give me the courage of Joshua. When I feel small or unsure about leading or deciding the right thing, remind me that You are with me. Fill me with Your Spirit of power and love, not fear. Help me take each step boldly, trusting You to guide and protect. Amen.
Action Steps:
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Write down a decision or challenge you’re facing this week. Pray over it and ask God to guide you.
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Memorize (or write somewhere) Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” as a reminder when doubts arise.
3. Prayer: Courage to Do What’s Right (Abigail’s Story)
Abigail was married to Nabal, a harsh man who insulted David’s men. When David considered revenge, Abigail hurried out of her home. She bravely approached David, took responsibility, and offered food and gifts to make peace. Her wisdom and courage saved lives. The Bible calls her story “a powerful example of wisdom, courage, and devotion to doing what is right in God’s sight.”. Abigail didn’t just hope things would turn out well she took action at great personal risk.
In our own lives, we face moments where doing the right thing might be risky or uncomfortable. Maybe it’s correcting a friend, helping at-risk youth, or telling the truth when others are silent. We can pray to be like Abigail bold and wise enough to act when we see injustice or danger, yet gentle and humble.
Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, grant me the courage and wisdom of Abigail. Help me to speak truth in love, even when it’s hard. Give me a humble heart to serve and the bold spirit to step forward when others stay silent. Fill me with honor to protect and do what’s right, so I honor You with my actions. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
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Think of a time you saw injustice or hurt around you. How did you respond? What might Abigail have done in that situation?
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What is one small step you could take this week to do the right thing, even if it scares you?
4. Prayer: Courage to Show Compassion (Good Samaritan’s Story)
Today, we might feel afraid to reach out to someone from a different background or to help someone society rejects. But like the Samaritan, we can pray for the courage to act kindly anyway. It takes bravery to offer help where others ignore someone. Every act of mercy is a step toward God’s kingdom and a powerful witness to Jesus’ love.
Prayer: Compassionate Father Lord Jesus, give me the Samaritan’s heart. Let me overcome fear or prejudice to help those in need. Fill me with bold love so I can step across walls that divide people. Teach me to see everyone as my neighbor and act with kindness and courage. Amen.
Action Steps:
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Identify one person or group you usually avoid or fear. Pray for the courage to show them simple kindness (a smile, a conversation, or a helping hand).
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Volunteer or give to a charity that helps strangers or marginalized people, asking God to use your actions as His love to others.
Quiz: What Kind of Courage Do You Need Today?
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Courage to speak truth even when it’s unpopular.
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Courage to trust God in the unknown.
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Courage to follow God’s calling even if you feel unqualified.
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Courage to love and help someone outside your comfort zone.
Think about your answer. What step can you take this week to grow in that courage? Share your thoughts below or take a small challenge like praying one of the prayers above tomorrow.
Regardless of what you checked, God is ready to help. Remember 2 Timothy 1:7: “God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-control.” Let’s claim that promise today!
A Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for these examples of biblical courage. When we feel afraid to do the right thing, remind us of Your Word and Your Spirit within us. Fill us with Your power and love so we can act bravely for You. Lord, give us the strength to speak up, to lead, to help, and to love as You lead us. We trust You to guide our steps. Amen.
I hope these prayers and stories encourage you. If you feel led, share your journey or prayer requests in the comments. How are you finding courage today? Your story might inspire someone else to step out in faith.
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