Strong and Courageous: Why Courage Is a Must for Men Who Lead

If you want to walk in purpose, courage isn’t optional—it’s essential. In Episode 158 of The Impossible Life Podcast, Garrett Unclebach and Nick Surface break down why courage is the defining trait of men who live well, lead boldly, and follow God faithfully.

This isn’t a motivational pep talk. It’s a biblical mandate and a practical challenge to reject fear, embrace obedience, and live a life worthy of your calling.

Why Courage Is Non-Negotiable

God doesn’t suggest courage—He commands it.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid...”
—Joshua 1:9

Garrett and Nick point out that God never tells Joshua to be wise, talented, or successful. He tells him to be strong and courageous. Why? Because courage is the gateway to everything else.

“Courage is what separates men who live by faith from men who live in fear.”
—Garrett Unclebach

What Courage Is (And Isn’t)

Courage is not the absence of fear. It’s the decision to move through fear because of what you believe.

“Courage is the willingness to obey God when you don’t know what the outcome will be.”
—Nick Surface

Courage isn’t just for big, dramatic moments. It’s for everyday decisions:

• Speaking truth when it’s unpopular

• Leading your home when you feel inadequate

• Taking action when you don’t feel ready

• Saying “yes” to God even when it costs you

Why Men Lack Courage

According to Garrett and Nick, there are three main reasons men struggle with courage:

1. They’ve Been Conditioned by Comfort

We live in a culture that values safety, ease, and predictability. But comfort doesn’t build courage—resistance does.

“Comfort is killing your courage. You can’t grow if you won’t stretch.”
—Garrett Unclebach

2. They Confuse Courage with Confidence

You don’t need to feel confident to be courageous. In fact, real courage usually shows up before confidence does.

“Courage goes first. Confidence follows.”
—Nick Surface

3. They Wait for Permission

Too many men are waiting for a green light—validation, certainty, or a perfect moment. Courage doesn’t wait. It moves in faith.

The Source of Courage: God’s Presence

One of the most powerful moments in the episode is when Garrett and Nick remind us that courage isn’t something we create—it’s something we receive from being in God’s presence.

“If you’re connected to the Father, you’ll have courage. If you’re not, you’ll always be insecure.”
—Garrett Unclebach

This is why courage is a spiritual discipline, not just a personality trait.

How to Cultivate Courage Daily

Garrett and Nick share five ways to build courageous momentum:

✅ 1. Spend Time with God

Courage comes from intimacy. If you want boldness, start with stillness.

✅ 2. Take Small Risks

Don’t wait for big moments. Train yourself by obeying quickly in small things.

✅ 3. Do Hard Things Daily

Discomfort is a training ground. Seek it. Push through it. Grow from it.

✅ 4. Surround Yourself with Brave Men

You’ll never rise above the level of courage around you. Get around men who challenge fear.

✅ 5. Celebrate Obedience, Not Outcomes

Don’t measure success by what happened—measure it by whether you did what God said.

Practical Action Plan: Live Strong and Courageous

✅ Identify the Fear – What have you been avoiding or delaying? Name it.
✅ Declare the Truth – Speak Joshua 1:9 out loud daily.
✅ Take One Bold Action – Obey God in an area you’ve hesitated in.
✅ Lean Into Discomfort – Start choosing hard things that grow courage.
✅ Stay in God’s Presence – Worship, Word, and prayer are your power source.

Final Thought: God’s Men Are Courageous Men

Courage is the doorway to everything you want—and everything God has for you. Without it, you’ll shrink, settle, and stall. With it, you’ll build, lead, and conquer.

“Strong and courageous isn’t a suggestion—it’s a command. And God gave it because He knew it’s what you’d need most.”
—Nick Surface

It’s time to stop playing it safe. Get in motion. Step up. Be the man who moves forward when others freeze.

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