We all experience a lack of courage at some point in our lives. In my case, I was bullied all through middle school. I learned to cope by reading various Psalms I picked up at Sunday school.
Even after graduating from theology school, I still use this technique whenever I feel discouraged. That is why I was excited when a member of my bible study group asked about the best Psalms to read for courage.
Having turned to these scriptures for encouragement for years, I was thrilled to share my knowledge on this topic.
Later on, I thought it was a good idea to write this article to help people hoping to find encouragement in the book of Psalms.
5 best Psalms to read for courage
Psalms 3:5-6
“I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.”
In this scripture, the Psalmist expresses his confidence that God will wake him up in the morning to see another day. The writer acknowledges that he has many adversaries surrounding him.
However, he declares that he will not fear because the Lord is his sustainer. So, you can read this Psalm to gain courage when people are ganging up against you.
Psalms 46:1-3
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”
This encouraging scripture reminds believers that God is their source of strength. The mighty God provides refuge during times of trouble.
The writer gives several examples of disasters that can make one lose courage. These include earthquakes and other natural calamities.
Still, this Psalm urges believers to be courageous in God. This Psalm is quite helpful when you want to gain courage during a calamity in your life.
Psalms 27:1
“The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?”
This Psalms is but confidence in God. The writer boldly states that God is our source of salvation. The Lord brings light and safety into the life of a believer.
Therefore, Christians should read this scripture to remind them not to fear anything or anyone. This verse also reminds us that true strength comes from God.
Therefore, when you feel discouraged, read Psalms 27:1 and meditate on it.
Psalms 23:4
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
This is one of the most popular Psalms in the Bible. The writer vows not to be afraid even in dangerous situations because the omnipresent God will come to his aid.
This courage-inspiring verse illustrates the various ways God guides and protects his people even in fatal situations. If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, this Psalm can be a great source of encouragement.
Psalms 91:4-5
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day.”
This is one of the loveliest psalms in the Bible. It talks about God’s tender love for his people. The writer talks about finding refuge under God’s wings during the day and at night.
It reminds believers that God’s truth is a powerful ammunition in a deceitful world. Whenever you lack courage, this Psalm will comfort and uplift you.
How to pray the Psalms for courage
You can use these Psalms to curate prayers for courage, as illustrated in the examples below;
Psalms 3:5-6
“I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.”
Dear Lord, I thank you because you are the sustainer of my life. I trust that as I lay down to get some rest, you will be my protector.
I pray that you give me courage in the face of opposition and numerous attacks. In Jesus’s name, I pray and believe, Amen.
This is a nice prayer to say before bed. Not only will you gain courage, but you will also have a good night’s sleep.
Psalms 23:4
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of life. Although times are hard right now, I trust in your steadfast love. Give me the courage to persevere, knowing that you will protect me and my family against all evil.
Thank you for your guidance. In Jesus name, Amen.
This prayer is ideal when you are under extreme pressure or danger. Saying this prayer will help you find courage and peace.
Can you use these Psalms to pray for someone else to get courage?
Yes. You can say this prayer over your children. For example, if you are close to a child who is being bullied at school, you can use Psalms 46:1-3 to pray for the courage they need to stick up for themselves.
Here is an example;
Heavenly Father, I thank you for my son/daughter. Help them to realize that real strength comes from you. Please eliminate fear from their hearts and replace it with courage.
Protect them from all evil. Lord, please change the hearts of the bullies in their lives. In Jesus name, Amen.
As a Christian, I have always been passionate about sharing God’s word with young people. This inspired me to pursue a Certificate in Christian Education, an Undergraduate degree in Religious Studies, and a Graduate degree in Theology. My knowledge in school and experience from dealing with the youth made me an expert at discussing Christian-related topics. I feel privileged working as the Coordinator of the Christian Youth Ministry at Christian Faith Guide. You can read more about me on the about us page.