Definition and Overview:
Living with confidence, from a biblical perspective, involves trusting in God's promises, relying on His strength, and walking in faith. Confidence in the Christian life is not based on self-assurance or worldly success but is rooted in the assurance of God's presence, His faithfulness, and His sovereignty over all circumstances.

Biblical Foundation:
The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that encourage believers to live with confidence. This confidence is not self-derived but is a result of faith in God and His Word.

1. Confidence in God's Presence:
· Joshua 1:9 : "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
· This verse emphasizes that confidence comes from the assurance of God's constant presence. Believers are encouraged to be strong and courageous, knowing that God is with them in every situation.

2. Confidence in God's Promises:
· Hebrews 10:23 : "Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful."
· The faithfulness of God is the foundation for confidence. Believers can trust that God will fulfill His promises, providing a secure hope that fuels confidence.

3. Confidence in God's Strength:
· Philippians 4:13 : "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."
· This verse highlights that true confidence is found in Christ's strength, not in human ability. Believers are empowered to face challenges through the strength provided by Jesus.

4. Confidence in Salvation:
· 1 John 5:13 : "I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life."
· Assurance of salvation is a key aspect of living with confidence. Knowing that eternal life is secure in Christ gives believers the confidence to live boldly for Him.

5. Confidence in Prayer:
· 1 John 5:14-15 : "And this is the confidence that we have before Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we already possess what we have asked of Him."
· Confidence in prayer is rooted in the understanding that God hears and answers prayers according to His will. This assurance encourages believers to approach God boldly in prayer.

Examples of Confidence in Scripture:

· David: In 1 Samuel 17, David's confidence in facing Goliath was not based on his own strength but on his faith in God. He declared, "The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine" (1 Samuel 17:37).

· Paul: The Apostle Paul exemplified confidence in God's purpose and plan, even amidst suffering. In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 , he writes, "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me."

Practical Application:
Believers are called to live with confidence by:

· Trusting in God's Word and His promises.
· Relying on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance.
· Maintaining a prayerful life, seeking God's will in all things.
· Encouraging one another in faith, as seen in Hebrews 10:24-25 : "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Living with confidence is a testament to a believer's faith and trust in God, reflecting a life that is anchored in His truth and empowered by His Spirit.