Courage to Stand (John Stamper)

In Courage to Stand: Profiles of Enduring Faith, John Stamper shares inspiring stories of courageous Christians who stood firm on God’s Word, facing intense spiritual conflicts without wavering. Designed to support Bible study and devotional reading, this powerful book is a treasure trove for Christian families seeking to build godly character through the example of those who came before us.

Each chapter of Courage to Stand takes readers on a journey through the lives of biblical figures, historical icons, and contemporary heroes of faith. These profiles are framed through the lens of the story of the three Hebrew children—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—whose faith in God led them through the fiery furnace of Babylon. Their story, though over 2,500 years old, resonates deeply with Christians today as we navigate our own spiritual conflicts in a fallen world.

Stamper masterfully parallels the spiritual battles faced by these enduring figures with the struggles we experience today. He shows how, just as God was present with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, He is with us in our own fiery furnaces. Through these stories, you will find encouragement to stand courageously against the challenges in your life, holding tightly to the Lord and His promises.

This book offers more than just historical insights; it’s a guide for building spiritual resilience. With each story, you’ll see how others have overcome their “Babylon,” faced their “Nebuchadnezzar,” endured their “fiery furnace,” and experienced God’s unwavering presence through it all.

Each inspiring story in Courage to Stand teaches three essential lessons drawn from Scripture:

• The Need to Strengthen Ourselves in the Lord (1 Samuel 30:6)
• The Call to Encourage and Strengthen One Another (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
• The Necessity of Remembering and Sharing the Works of God with the Next Generation (Psalm 78:4-7)

As Stamper writes, “This book is all about lifting up the name of Jesus and prioritizing the Word of God. The only reason I’m pointing to the people in this book is because they first pointed to Jesus.”

Courage to Stand is a powerful resource for families, offering a wealth of stories that inspire courage, faith, and unwavering commitment to God’s Word. Whether used for family devotions or personal study, this book will encourage you to stand firm in your faith, no matter what spiritual conflicts you face.