Courage – The Courage to Say No (365/274)
Sometimes courage does not announce itself loudly. It simply says NO when saying yes would be easier, especially when everyone around us chooses differently.
“But the midwives feared God, and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the male children alive.” (Exodus 1:17)
The very first chapter of Exodus records the account of two ordinary women Shiphrah and Puah entrusted with an extraordinary responsibility. As Hebrew midwives in Egypt, they served women who were already enduring the harsh oppression of Pharaoh. But when the king commanded them to kill every Hebrew boy at birth, they faced a life changing choice - to obey the most powerful ruler in the land or remain faithful to the God they feared?
They chose God. Their courage was expressed not through public protest, but through quiet, deliberate resistance as they risked their safety to preserve life. Revering God more than Pharaoh, they chose obedience over fear, reminding us that true courage often lies in quiet decisions to do what is right, even when no one is watching.
We see this same surrender in Jesus, who did not turn away from the cross but chose obedience at the greatest cost. In Gethsemane, He prayed, “not My will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42).
Pause and Ponder
Is the fear of people keeping you from doing what is right?
Where is God calling you to choose obedience over approval?
Is your courage rooted in self-confidence or reverence for God?
May our reverence for God outweigh our fear of people, and may we have the courage to honour Him, even when obedience comes at a cost.
Lord, give me courage to honour You above all else, stand firm in truth, and remain faithful to Your will. Amen.
Extended Reading: Exodus 1
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