The followers of Jesus should be full of confidence and have a heart that shows no signs of backing down in the face of difficulties.

The Apostle Paul said it this way to believers in the city of Philippi, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:21).  He believed that if he was alive, then his life had purpose and meaning in the mission of Jesus.  If he died, he was going to be in heaven with Jesus.  He was not afraid to live or die because of his faith. 

Paul also writes to Timothy and reminds him that believers are filled with the Holy Spirit and then adds this line. “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7) When someone becomes a believer, they are then given the Spirit, and it is to fill us with power to live and speak for Jesus. 

Whatever situation a believer finds themselves in, they are not at a loss.  In this life, they have the power and presence of God with them wherever they go, and should tragedy befall them; they have the hope of eternity.  It is a no-lose situation. 

The other night I watched a group of basketball players walking into a ballgame, and someone said, “Look at that swagger.” The word means exceedingly confident, often expressed in their gait.  It can border on arrogance, but that is not required.  My immediate thought was, “We need some Christians with a little swagger.” People willing to hold their heads high not because they are great but because they trust a great God.  The victory is secured, the hope is eternal, and the joy is complete. 

There are times when the plea is for humility and a servant’s heart.  Other times there is a need for a bit of swagger.  I don’t know what you need to hear, but I guess you could use a shot of confidence to make it through the week.  Hang tough, God will take care of you, and there is nothing to fear.  You are already on the winning team.  If that doesn’t give you a little extra swagger, nothing will.