Be of Good Cheer

When fear crept in, Jesus reminded Paul to be of good cheer—a call for us too, to face trials with courage, knowing God is with us.

The commander … commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them … into the barracks. But the following night, the Lord stood by him and said, “Be of good cheer, Paul … you must also bear witness at Rome.”—Acts 23:10–11 NKJV

On the surface, Paul must have seemed bold and confident. But, in reality, he had the same weaknesses we all share. We see this human side after a mob threatened him and took him into the barracks. He must have been concerned because Jesus Himself appeared to comfort him.

Jesus’ first words were that Paul should “be of good cheer.” The Greek word here, from a root word meaning boldness and courage, was spoken by Jesus on many occasions throughout His ministry.

Jesus wanted Paul to be confident and bold. Even though he was outnumbered and his life was in peril, he could fearlessly face his circumstances and even be cheerful!

We see the impact of this message the next morning when Paul was calm, clearheaded, focused, and decisive. Instead of feeling fear, doubt, or confusion, he was “of good cheer.”

If Paul could experience fear and discouragement at times, we shouldn’t be surprised if we do, too. Yet, like Paul, God can help us be of good courage in every situation.

Today, no matter what difficult circumstances you face, God can supply your every need. No matter how big the obstacles you face, He is with you to face them. If you feel alone, remember that He is with you. No matter who threatens you, know that “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

Reflection Question: What would it look like to face my current challenge cheerfully?