Courage Is Contagious

by Rick Warren — June 6, 2020

“Most of the brothers in the Lord have gained confidence from my imprisonment and dare even more to speak the message fearlessly.”

Philippians 1:14 (HCSB)

God wants you to have courage and stand up for his ways when everyone else sits down. But it’s not just for your own good.

It’s for the good of others, too.

When you stand up publicly for what God wants, you’ll encourage other believers. When you stand up for God, other people will follow.

Courage is contagious. You never know how many people will join you until you courageously step out in faith.

Most people are waiting for a leader to show some courage. They’re waiting for someone like you to demonstrate some faith.

Paul writes about this in Philippians 1:14: “Most of the brothers in the Lord have gained confidence from my imprisonment and dare even more to speak the message fearlessly” (HCSB).

Paul’s imprisonment for the Gospel led to others demonstrating more boldness.

God will use your courage, too, to help others respond with courage.

Talk It Over

  • How have you been motivated by someone else’s courage and faith?
  • Why is courage contagious?
  • What step of faith can you take this week that will show courage and possibly motivate others to do the same?

There’s a place in God’s forever family ready and waiting for you. The invitation is wide open. Just believe and receive.

Are you ready? Here’s a prayer you can start with: “Dear God, I know that when I die I’m going to give an account of my life to you directly. I confess I have ignored you. I know I have sinned against you, and I have lived by my plan, not yours. I want that to change, starting right now. I want to turn away from my sins toward you.

“Thank you for sending Jesus to die for all that I’ve done wrong so that I don’t have to pay the penalty. I know that I don’t deserve your forgiveness. I know that only your grace can save me, Lord. I could never be good enough to get into a perfect place.

“Jesus, thank you for loving me so much that you took all my guilt on yourself. You made me acceptable for Heaven, and I humbly ask you to save me. I ask you to save me from the sins and habits that are messing up my life right now. I believe in you, Jesus. And I believe that you will keep your promise to save me instantly, certainly, completely, and eternally. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

If you prayed the prayer above, please write and tell me at [email protected]. I’d love to send you some materials as you begin your journey with Jesus.


Give hope, prayer, and encouragement below. Post a comment & talk about it.