Praying for Courage, Not Comfort

It’s natural to want comfort. When we’re threatened, our first instinct is often to ask God to remove the danger. But the early church modeled a different kind of prayer. They didn’t ask for the opposition to stop. They asked for courage. They wanted boldness to keep doing what God had called them to do, no matter the risk.

Courage doesn’t mean the absence of fear—it means moving forward despite fear. Even King David said, “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You” (Psalm 56:3).
 
The early believers knew they needed God’s strength to remain faithful. They weren’t trying to act tough or rely on their own bravery. They went directly to the Source of true boldness: the Lord Himself.
 
This is where many of us struggle. We often pray for God to take away our problems rather than asking for the courage to face them. But when we pray for boldness, we invite God to work through us powerfully. We are acknowledging that we can’t do it on our own—that we need His Spirit to help us.
 
Scripture:
Psalms 56:3 - When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.
 
Acts 4:29 - And now, Lord, take note of their threats, and grant that Your bond-servants may speak Your word with all confidence.
 
Application:
What is something God may be asking you to do that requires courage? Memorize Acts 4:29 to remind yourself to pray for boldness regularly.
 
Prayer:
Father, Please give me boldness—not arrogance, but loving courage—to share Your truth no matter what.