Jesus Gives Courage – May 10, 2026

One key truth: The risen Jesus gives courage to face fear.

Indeed, it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil, because Christ also suffered once for sins in our place, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in flesh but was made alive in spirit, in which he also went and made an announcement to the spirits in prison. These spirits disobeyed long ago, when God’s patience was waiting in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In this ark a few, that is, eight souls, were saved by water. And corresponding to that, baptism now saves you—not the removal of dirt from the body but the guarantee of a good conscience before God through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He went to heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers made subject to him.
1 Peter 3:17-22 EHV

Jesus Gives Courage

Fear creeps in when you stand out as a Christian. It’s that moment when you wonder, “What are they going to think of me?” So, you hesitate to speak because you don’t want to be labeled, awkward, or left out. So sometimes… it just feels easier to stay quiet. Faith can feel lonely—especially when fitting in feels like everything. Peter wrote to believers who felt that same pressure. Different time. Same struggle. So Peter told them: Don’t let fear decide how you live. Instead, set apart Christ as Lord in your hearts—which means real confidence grows from knowing who your Savior is and trusting what he has done for you. Because real confidence doesn’t come from “I hope this goes well.” It comes from “I know who my Savior is.”

That trust rests on what Christ has already accomplished. Jesus “suffered once for sins… the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” That single sentence holds the heart of the gospel. The Son of God took your place, carried your guilt, and paid for it completely. Not partly. Completely. Then he rose from death and ascended into heaven, where he rules with all authority. That victory gives you courage when fear surrounds you. For you belong to the living Christ.

Peter reminds believers that baptism ties them to that same victory. Just like Noah and his family were carried safely through the flood, you were carried safely through the waters of baptism. And this isn’t just about getting wet. It’s not a shower—it’s a promise. Baptism gives you a clean conscience before God. Through the resurrection of Jesus, baptism assures you that your sins are forgiven and that you belong to God.

So when someone asks about your faith, you don’t have to panic. You don’t have to have every answer. Christ has already answered the deepest questions of your heart. His risen life shapes your own, giving you a quiet confidence. Not loud. Not arrogant. Steady. Real. Peace-filled. And from that peace comes gentleness. And from his promises comes strength and the ability to stand firm in his name.

Prayer:

Risen Savior, you suffered for me and brought me to God. Give me courage when I am afraid, and give me peace when I face pressure for my faith. Help me to live with a clear conscience, knowing that I belong to you. Amen.