From the first verse in Genesis to the last verse in Revelation, the Bible is about why and how people are to have confidence in God. Confidence begins with recognizing God’s love. Out of love, He created man to have a relationship with Him. To walk with Him! To rely upon Him! But after the fall, sin entered the world, separating a righteous God from unrighteous people. Things changed, but God’s love did not change. God’s love provided the plan of redemption. Because of how deeply He loves us, we can place our confidence in Him. There is no greater love.
The Bible also tells us that “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The Word of God is absolute truth, and Jesus is the Truth (John 14:6). Therefore, God’s Word teaches us the why, what, where, when, and how to have confidence in God. We can always put our confidence in His Word.
The promises of God are another way the Bible speaks about confidence. Genesis 3:15 promises the coming of Christ--a promise fulfilled. Joshua reminds the Israelites, “You know in all your hearts and all your souls that not one thing has failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spoke concerning you. All have come to pass for you; not one word of them has failed” (Joshua 23:14). It’s a reminder for us today. All the Old Testament promises were fulfilled through Christ. And in Christ, “For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us” (2 Corinthians 1:20). We can rest confidently in His promises.
Where Does the Bible Talk about Confidence?
The Word of God is rich with Scriptures about confidence. They give hope, deepen our faith, help us to walk with courage, and provide strength to face everything in life. Review them often, especially when your faith in the Lord is wavering.
The book of Philippians, written by the Apostle Paul from prison, talks about joy and rejoicing in the Lord. With all that Paul had been through in his life, he was able to write, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Notice the phrase “all things.” Paul knew that his confidence was in Christ. And through Christ, he could do anything God gave him to do. What a wonderful verse to pray as a new day unfolds!
What Does the Bible Say We Put Our Confidence In?
Self-confidence depends upon my talents, heritage, education, and experiences—me, myself, and I. Self-confidence eventually leads to the realization that we will fail and promotes a false sense of security. Furthermore, sometimes a self-confident attitude can lead to arrogance. And there are additional dangers. Proverbs 28:26 (ESV) gives the following warning about depending upon ourselves, “Whoever trusts in his mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.” Paul reminds us to “have no confidence in the flesh” (Philippians 3:3).
Here is the Good News. When people place their faith and trust in Jesus and begin to grow in their relationship with Him, they realize there needs to be a shift from self-confidence to God-confidence. There is a growing awareness that God, through Jesus Christ, is the one who equips and empowers. Herein is where our confidence lies, in Christ.
What Does Confidence in God Mean?
In the Old Testament, the words “confidence” and “assurance” come from the same Hebrew derivative but in different forms. In the New Testament, the Greek words are translated with “assurance, persuaded, and convinced.” Digging deeper, it’s wise to consult a commentary or a dictionary. Also, the word “trust” is mentioned within the verses. And isn’t that really the bottom line? Who do you trust, God or yourself?
Biblical confidence focuses on God’s mercy, love, and grace. His attributes, character, and His names. Confidence in God means I can trust Him in all situations. He is more than able (Ephesians 3:20). And through Jesus Christ, I have everything I need. The Apostle Paul knew what it meant to walk confidently in Christ. From his imprisonment, Paul wrote about God’s provision and being content in whatever situation God had him in. But at the end of Philippians 4:13, he wrote, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (ESV). His confidence was in the power of God.
Does Confidence in God Mean Looking Tough?
In 2 Kings 5:1-19, we read about Captain Naaman. He served in the king of Aram’s army and was the epitome of someone tough. He was important, highly regarded, and a valiant warrior, but he had a skin disease—leprosy. Through a series of events, he was given instructions on how he could be healed. Rather than following the instructions, Naaman gets angry and then says, “I was telling myself.” He expected Elisha to come out of his house, wave his hand, and cure him. Naaman had a plan, but it wasn’t God’s way. Eventually, he surrendered and obeyed God. His toughness, and self-confidence, turned to humility.
Contrast this with the centurion who came to Jesus, Matthew 8:5-13. He approached Jesus, asking for his “paralyzed, dreadfully tormented” servant to be healed. Jesus was willing to come; however, the centurion told him, “Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed.” There was no hesitation, only humility and faith in Jesus. This is confidence!
Trusting and knowing that Jesus is more than able requires a willingness to surrender everything and submit to His authority. We are fighting a spiritual war, and this battle requires toughness, a toughness that is provided by the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. It is not by our strength but by His power.
How Can We Practice Confidence Today?
Do you need a biblical confidence builder exercise? Read through the book of Colossians and circle the references to Christ with a red colored pencil. As Christ-followers, we find our motives and resources—confidence—comes from who we are “in Christ” and our trust in Him.
Memorize 2 Peter 1:3, “His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who calls us by glory and virtue.” Then add additional Scriptures mentioned in this article. Read Psalm 16, then write how the Psalmist expresses confidence in the Lord.
Daily we must put our confidence in the Lord, don’t lean on your understanding, acknowledge Him in everything, and He promises to direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). Ask yourself, am I trusting in myself or trusting in God?
Further Reading:
How to Be Confident: 7 Confidence-Boosting Truths and Tips
Photo Credit: Getty Images/Paul Bradbury
Laura Lee Leathers is a writer and speaker. Imagine Lois Lane, over sixty-five, and living on a farm. Her metropolis is the area of freelance writing. Her primary love interest is the Word of God. She digs for information, interviews fascinating people, offers a cup of biblical hospitalit-tea, encourages, and helps others with the ‘how-to’s’ of life. To sign up for her newsletter, connect with her at http://lauraleeleathers.com - - - “Helping You Flourish in Faith & Finish Well by His Word”
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