Isaiah 51: 3-4; 41: 10-13

When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?

If you have read the article on the ‘meaning of courage’, you’ll realize that courage is not the absence of fear, but rather boldness in the face of danger or fear. The general misconception is that the presence of courage automatically means the absence of alarm, panic, or terror – nothing can be farther from the truth. Courage assumes the perspective of ‘facing every problem, challenge, difficulties, and rising’!

The above title reflects the nature of the word courage – inherent in that concept lies the fortitude or driving force that surmounts all obstacles! Therefore, in consideration of the ‘audacity of faith’, let us further make the following analyses…

Courage defies obstacles:

• Courage openly resists anything that tends to block, or hinder one’s progress. In the words, the refusal to succumb to hurdles, problems, or drawbacks explains the audacity of courage.

Courage overcomes limitations:

• Courage prevails over boundaries or restrictions.  That is, the inner strength that overpowers limiting factors, or constraints is a demonstration of the audacity of courage.

Courage confronts problems:

• Courage opposes or tackles any issue that poses a challenge in the path of success. The ability to resolve any arising dilemma along the way spells the audacity of courage.

Courage challenges difficulties:

• Courage refuses to acknowledge or accept the inconveniences associated with accomplishing any task. In other words, the willingness to be keep advancing despite the difficulties is a true display of the audacity of courage.

Courage conquers fear:

• Courage defeats the unpleasant emotions of fear that may arise to paralyze progress. That is, courage declines the feeling of consternation (at any given time); and this describes the audacity of courage.

Courage is a necessary virtue in any endeavor. The audacity of courage is boldness in the face of fear, it is bravery in the presence of obstacles, it is advancement in the midst of discouragement! Courage rides the storm, smiles at pain, ignores obstructions, and laughs at fear!

This is the audacity of courage!