“The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.” (Proverbs 28:1)
Scripture describes the lion as the “strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any.” (Prov. 30:30) He is said to “go well” and be “comely in going.” What does this mean? Nothing stops his “going” forward or advance. Regardless of what beast stands before him, he is undaunted. He will not back down, he will not turn away.
Now, there is a foolish advance into sin. “Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.” There is alse a wise “turning away.” “A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.” (Prov. 14:16) There is quite a difference between godly bravery and ungodly bravado. The one goes forward with self-confidence, the other with confidence in God.
The brave are those who accept difficult assignments, not because they are naturally capable, but because they know that God is mighty, and His strength is made perfect in their weakness. “… But the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.” (Dan. 11:32) They advance on their knees. Where others turn away, they turn to their God, knowing He will provide a way of escape that they may endure the trial successfully. They are not masochists or martyrs. They are only willing to suffer and die in the will of God. They are not out to prove themselves to anyone, but God. And they are utterly convinced that without Christ they can do nothing. All the glory for any victory they achieve will go to Him. “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Cor. 15:57)
The flock follows their Shepherd into the valley. The soldier follows the Lord of hosts into battle. Because He did not turn back, they don’t turn back. He is the Lion. He is the Brave one. He is our strength and inspiration. In the face of the most challenging mountain, He gives us courage, and the promise He will go with us to strengthen us day by day. Through Him, we shall do valiantly!