Courage is often misunderstood. I used to believe that it meant being fearless – standing tall without a hint of doubt or hesitation when scary or difficult things happened. But I now understand that true courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s moving forward despite the fear. It’s me acknowledging the fear and choosing to act anyway. And often, it’s my faith that fuels that courage, giving me the strength to do the hard things life asks of me.
When I am faced with difficult decisions, uncomfortable situations, or major life changes, fear is a natural response. Fear warns me of potential danger, failure, or pain. But I have learned over my lifetime that it’s not meant to stop me – it’s meant to make me cautious and aware. Courage is what steps in next, reminding me that the outcome on the other side of the fear is worth the struggle.
Faith plays a powerful role in this process. Faith, whether in a higher power, in the bigger picture, or even in ourselves, can help us push past the paralysis of fear. For me, that faith is in God and Jesus Christ. For you it may be something else. Most people have a belief in something greater than self. This faith reassures us that we are not alone and that even if things do not go perfectly, we are still capable, worthy and resilient. Faith tells us that our purpose is bigger than our fear.
Consider this: when you trust that something good can come from a difficult situation – even if you can’t see it yet – you give yourself permission to act with courage. Faith becomes the bridge between fear and action. It shifts our focus from “What if I fail?” to “What if this leads me to something better than I imagined?”
Courage doesn’t mean we won’t feel afraid. It means we believe something greater is on the other side of that fear. As a parent facing a tough decision for my child doesn’t lack fear, in fact it can feel paralyzing. I move forward because my love and faith in what’s best for my child outweighs the fear. Someone leaving an unfulfilling job or pursuing a lifelong dream or facing retirement, like me, doesn’t do so without anxiety – they lean on faith that they are capable of creating a better future.
The truth is anything worth doing usually requires courage. Growth, success, and meaningful change rarely come from staying comfortable! Courage allows us to grow into what we’re meant to be. Faith fuels that courage when your own strength feels shaky.
So, how do you find courage when you’re overwhelmed by fear? Start by reminding yourself that fear is a feeling, not a stop sign. Acknowledge it, but don’t let it lead. Then, tap into your faith – whatever that looks like for you – and trust that you are stronger and more capable than your fear wants you to believe.
Remember…courage isn’t about being fearless. It’s about believing that, with faith, you can do hard things. Even when fear is whispering in your ear. Because you can. And you will.
