Bravery is not the absence of fear but the mastery of it — the willingness to do the right thing when fear urges retreat. God commanded Joshua four times: "Be strong and of good courage" (Joshua 1:6, 7, 9, 18). David ran toward Goliath, not away. The three Hebrew children said "our God whom we serve is able to deliver us... but if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods" (Daniel 3:17-18) — bravery even in the face of certain death. Esther said "If I perish, I perish" (Esther 4:16). Peter and John answered the Sanhedrin: "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:19-20). Biblical bravery is not reckless — it weighs the cost. But when the cost has been counted and the command is clear, the brave man acts. The Christian has no legitimate excuse for cowardice, because Christ has already won the decisive victory.
BRA'VERY, n. Courage; undaunted spirit; intrepidity; fearlessness in the presence of danger.
BRA'VERY, n. 1. Courage; heroism; undaunted spirit; intrepidity; gallantry; fearlessness of danger; often united with generosity or dignity of mind which despises meanness and cruelty, and disdains to take advantage of a vanquished enemy. 2. Splendor; magnificence; showy appearance [archaic].
Joshua 1:9 — "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."
Daniel 3:17-18 — "Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us... But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods."
Esther 4:16 — "And if I perish, I perish!"
Acts 4:19 — "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge."