Examples of confidence in the Bible

         Confidence, when rooted in God, is a powerful expression of faith. It is not arrogance or self-reliance, but an assurance in the character, promises, and power of God. Throughout the Bible, we encounter men and women who faced overwhelming odds, terrifying enemies, and uncertain futures with steadfast confidence—not in themselves, but in the God who never fails. Their stories serve as enduring testaments to what divine confidence looks like in action.

1. David Facing Goliath (1 Samuel 17)

         Perhaps the most iconic example of confidence in the Bible is the young shepherd David facing the Philistine giant, Goliath. While the seasoned warriors of Israel trembled, David stepped forward boldly.

    “David said to the Philistine, ‘You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty…’” 1 Samuel 17:45 (NIV)

         David’s confidence was not in his sling or skill, but in the name and reputation of the Lord. He remembered God's past faithfulness in delivering him from the lion and the bear, and trusted that God would do the same again.

2. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3)

         These three Hebrew men refused to bow to King Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image, even under the threat of being thrown into a fiery furnace.

    “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it… But even if he does not… we will not serve your gods.” Daniel 3:17-18 (NIV)

         Their confidence was unwavering. They knew God could deliver them, and they were resolute even if He chose not to. This level of faith shows supreme confidence in God's sovereignty.

3. Esther Before the King (Esther 4–5)

         Queen Esther risked her life by approaching King Xerxes uninvited, a violation of court protocol punishable by death.

    “I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” Esther 4:16 (NIV)

        Esther's confidence was built on fasting, prayer, and trust in God's providence. She stepped forward not recklessly, but with divine assurance and courage.

4. Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18)

         Elijah challenged 450 prophets of Baal to a dramatic contest on Mount Carmel. Alone, he confidently called on God to send fire from heaven.

    “Answer me, LORD, answer me, so these people will know that you, LORD, are God…” 1 Kings 18:37 (NIV)

         Elijah’s boldness was not self-centered but God-glorifying. His confidence rested in the power and identity of Yahweh.

5. Paul in the Face of Persecution (Acts 20–21)

         The Apostle Paul repeatedly displayed unwavering confidence despite facing imprisonment and death. As he prepared to go to Jerusalem, where danger awaited, he said:

    “I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 21:13 (NIV)

         Paul’s confidence stemmed from his personal encounter with Christ and his mission. He was undeterred by human threats.

6. Jesus Before Pilate (John 18–19)

         Jesus, the perfect example of divine confidence, stood before Pilate calm and composed, knowing what lay ahead. When questioned about His kingship, Jesus responded:

    “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above.” John 19:11 (NIV)

         His quiet yet profound confidence reflected complete trust in the Father's plan, even unto death.

7. Joshua Leading Israel (Joshua 1)

         As Moses' successor, Joshua was tasked with leading Israel into the Promised Land. God repeatedly urged him to be strong and courageous.

    “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged…” Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

         Joshua's confidence was founded in God’s promises, presence, and command—not personal ability.

8. Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin (Acts 4)

        After healing a lame man, Peter and John were arrested and brought before the religious council. Their boldness astonished the authorities.

    “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men… they were astonished…” Acts 4:13 (NIV)

         Their confidence came from being with Jesus and being filled with the Holy Spirit, not from education or social status.

9. The Woman with the Issue of Blood (Mark 5:25–34)

         Suffering for 12 years, this woman believed that touching Jesus’ garment would bring healing.

    “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” Mark 5:28 (NIV)

         Her faith-driven confidence led her to press through the crowd in desperation and hope. Jesus affirmed her faith by healing her.

10. Job Amidst Suffering (Job 13:15)

         Despite losing his children, health, and wealth, Job uttered these famous words:

    “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him…” Job 13:15 (NIV)

         Job’s confidence was not in his situation but in the righteousness and justice of God—even when he did not understand.

11. The Centurion Who Believed in Jesus’ Authority (Matthew 8:5–13)

        This Roman centurion amazed Jesus with his faith. He believed that Jesus only needed to speak a word for his servant to be healed.

    “Just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” Matthew 8:8 (NIV)

         His confidence in Christ’s authority surpassed even that of many Israelites. Jesus called it “great faith.”

12. Hannah’s Prayer for a Child (1 Samuel 1–2)

         Hannah, though childless and mocked, confidently poured out her soul before the Lord in the temple.

    “I was pouring out my soul to the Lord… I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief.” 1 Samuel 1:15–16 (NIV)

         Her trust in God’s compassion and power to answer prayers showed spiritual confidence born of persistent faith.

13. Abraham’s Trust in God’s Promise (Romans 4)

         Even though he was very old and Sarah’s womb was barren, Abraham believed God would give him a son.

    “Being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” Romans 4:21 (NIV)

         Abraham’s confidence was in God's faithfulness, not in human logic or circumstances.

14. Moses Before Pharaoh (Exodus 3–12)

        Though initially reluctant, Moses eventually stood before Pharaoh repeatedly, declaring God’s command to let His people go.

    “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘Let my people go…’” Exodus 5:1 (NIV)

         Moses’ growing confidence came through obedience and experiencing God’s power through signs and wonders.

15. Mary’s Trust at the Annunciation (Luke 1)

         When the angel Gabriel told Mary she would conceive by the Holy Spirit, she responded with humble faith.

    “I am the Lord’s servant… May your word to me be fulfilled.” Luke 1:38 (NIV)

         Her confidence wasn’t based on understanding everything, but on trusting the One who had spoken.

         True confidence in the Bible is not self-centered, but God-centered. It grows from knowing who God is—His power, character, and promises. From David on the battlefield to Paul in prison, from Esther in the palace to Hannah in the temple, each example reveals a person who trusted God more than their fears, enemies, or limitations. Their lives teach us that confidence in the Lord is both powerful and pleasing to Him.

   “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.” Hebrews 10:35 (NIV)

         These biblical stories are not just historical accounts—they are living testimonies meant to inspire believers today to walk boldly, speak courageously, and trust unshakably in the God who is always faithful.