“The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.” (Proverbs 28:1)

“Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, that they might rise again to a better life.” (Hebrews 11:35)

“Blessed are you when men persecute you on account of me. Rejoice and be glad, for great is your reward in heaven.” (Matthew 5:11-12)

“Do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. . . . Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered.” (Luke 12:4,7)

Moses to Joshua before the promised land: “Be strong and of good courage. . . . It is the Lord who goes before you; he will be with you, he will not fail you or forsake you; do not fear or be dismayed.” (Deuteronomy 31:7–8)

Hezekiah to his commanders in the face of Sennacherib, king of Assyria: “Be strong and of good courage. Do not be afraid or dismayed . . . for there is one greater with us than with him. With him is the arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God, to help us fight our battles.” (2 Chronicles 32:7–8)

David to Solomon encouraging him to build the temple: “Be strong and of good courage, and do it. Fear not, be not dismayed; for the Lord God, even my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.” (1 Chronicles 28:20)

David to Goliath on the field of battle: “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin; but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts. . . . This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands. . . that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel . . . for the battle is the Lord's and he will give you into our hand.” (1 Samuel 17:45-47)

Thomas to the disciples: “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” (John 11:16)

Hebrews to YOU: “Let us go forth to him outside the camp, bearing abuse for him.” (Hebrews 13:13)

Swinging in the rope,

Pastor John