Charles Stanley - A Formula For Courage

God offers a solution to the very human struggle with fear, inadequacy, and discouragement during trying times. In this message, Dr. Stanley shows us the biblical formula for gaining a never-ending source of strength in God’s almighty presence. He is the one who empowers and equips us with the courage we need to face any circumstance. Learning to rely on Him and the wisdom from His Word will lead us to outcomes even greater than we can imagine.


Where do you turn to for courage? Where do you go to strengthen yourself for everything you must face?

I recall the first time I preached a sermon and how feelings of inadequacy troubled me. My mother could see I was nervous about standing up in front of the church and knew I needed encouragement. So she said to me, “I want to give you a verse of Scripture that God has given me for you.” She then handed me a piece of paper with Joshua 1:9 written on it: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

I tucked that verse of Scripture into my pocket and walked to the church. When I got to the corner across from where the church was located, I pulled out that little slip of paper and read it again. That verse taught me the awesome principle that when you or I need courage, we cannot look to ourselves or our own abilities to find it. Instead, we can go forward with confidence, knowing that the Lord God is with us. He is the One who empowers, equips, and enables us to serve Him.

That day, God filled me with unusual courage as I preached, and afterward I walked away knowing that more happened through that sermon than I could ever have accomplished on my own. The Holy Spirit not only guided my words, but He also opened the ears of the people listening and worked in their hearts. I saw the truth of Joshua 1:9 lived out powerfully. And that verse has become an anchor in my life, helping me to face the opportunities, obstacles, and challenges that have arisen throughout the years.