Can Courage and Fear Coexist in Faithful Leaders?
In this article, you will learn how Deuteronomy 31:23 contradicts Exodus 4:10, Numbers 13:31, Matthew 26:56, Judges 6:15, Jeremiah 1:6 and Jonah 1:3. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In exploring the Bible, we often encounter verses that speak to the complexity of human experience, showing instances where courage and fear seem to coexist, particularly in the lives of revered leaders. One prominent verse, Deuteronomy 31:23, tells us that God encourages Joshua to be strong and courageous, promising His presence as Joshua leads the people of Israel to the promised land. This call for unwavering bravery sets a notable benchmark for faithfulness and leadership.
However, when we look at other biblical narratives, we find a contrasting picture. In Exodus 4:10, Moses himself expresses apprehension about his speaking abilities, feeling inadequate for the task God has chosen him for. This instance highlights the human tendency to doubt, despite divine assurances.
Similarly, in Numbers 13:31, the report by the spies reveals their fear and lack of trust in God's promise. This stands in stark contrast to the courage and confidence expected of Joshua.
In the New Testament, Matthew 26:56 provides another dimension. As Jesus is arrested, His disciples abandon Him and flee, revealing their fear and highlighting a lapse in courage akin to what Joshua was admonished against.
Judges 6:15 introduces Gideon, who questions his capacity to save Israel, thus embodying doubt against the backdrop of Joshua’s charge for strength. Jeremiah 1:6 further illustrates this theme with the prophet Jeremiah expressing reluctance, mirroring the hesitation leaders often experience.
Finally, Jonah 1:3 shows Jonah fleeing from God’s command, a vivid depiction of fear and disobedience standing in opposition to Joshua's expected courage and obedience.
These narratives collectively pose an intriguing question: Can courage truly exist alongside doubt and fear in the realm of leadership? They serve as a profound reminder of the complex nature of faith, where human frailty meets divine expectation.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Deuteronomy 31:23 | And he gave Joshua the son of Nun a charge, and said, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them: and I will be with thee. |
| 2. | Exodus 4:10 | And Moses said unto the LORD, O my Lord, I [am] not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I [am] slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. [eloquent: Heb. a man of words] [heretofore: Heb. since yesterday, nor since the third day] |
| 3. | Numbers 13:31 | But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they [are] stronger than we. |
| 4. | Matthew 26:56 | And they that had laid hold on Jesus led [him] away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. |
| 5. | Judges 6:15 | And he said unto him, Oh my Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold, my family [is] poor in Manasseh, and I [am] the least in my father's house. [my family...: Heb. my thousand is the meanest] |
| 6. | Jeremiah 1:6 | Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I [am] a child. |
| 7. | Jonah 1:3 | But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. |