Just recently, the Philippines commemorated Araw ng Kagitingan, or the Day of Valor—a solemn remembrance of the Fall of Bataan during World War II, and the bravery of those who stood their ground despite overwhelming odds.
But what exactly is valor?
Dictionary.com defines it as “boldness or determination in facing great danger, especially in battle; heroic courage; bravery.”
Aren’t we all familiar with battles?
They may not be fought with weapons or on a battlefield, but every day, each of us faces struggles. They can be seen or unseen, big or small. We win some, we lose some.
But the courage to keep going? That’s valor, too.
Take a look at the men in the Bible who exemplified valor. If you’re someone who feels weak and far from having valor, these biblical stories will inspire you to rise above your situation.
The term “man of valor” appears throughout the Old Testament.
Gideon
One of the most notable examples is Gideon, whom the angel of the Lord calls a “mighty man of valor” (Judges 6:12, ESV). Interestingly, at that moment, Gideon was hiding from his enemies, full of fear and self-doubt.
Yet God saw something more in him. This moment shows that valor is not defined by one’s current strength or confidence, but by one’s willingness to trust God and act in obedience despite fear.
David
David, too, exemplified valor—not just as a warrior, but as a man after God’s own heart. His courage in facing Goliath was not based on arrogance but on a deep trust in God’s power.
A man of valor doesn’t seek glory for himself; he fights for what is right because he knows whom he serves.
Joshua
Another powerful example is Joshua, the successor of Moses.
When God commissioned him to lead Israel into the Promised Land, He gave this command: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9, NIV).
Joshua’s valor was marked not only by his leadership but by his unwavering obedience to God’s Word. Even when facing fortified cities and large armies, he remained faithful.
His courage came not from his own abilities, but from the presence and promises of God.
Jesus Christ
At the core of a believer is humility. Jesus Christ, the ultimate example of strength and valor, demonstrated this humility throughout His ministry.
He spoke with authority yet washed His disciples’ feet. He had power over life and death yet surrendered to the cross. A man of valor does not need the world’s validation—he finds his identity in Jesus.
In today’s generation, can you still see someone like this?
Maybe rarely, but not entirely impossible. To be a man of valor today means:
- Walking in integrity even when no one is watching (Proverbs 10:9, NIV).
- Loving sacrificially, especially your family, as Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25, NIV).
- Standing firm in faith, not compromising your values when challenged (1 Corinthians 16:13, NIV).
- Serving others selflessly, using your strength to lift others up (Philippians 2:3-4, NIV).
Becoming a Man of Valor
Valor is not something that can be earned overnight—it’s shaped in daily decisions. It grows in moments of prayer, in choosing obedience over comfort, and in loving when it’s hard.
But it is possible.
Surround yourself with godly mentors. Be accountable. Stay in the Word. Most of all, remain in the Lord. Valor is not something you muster on your own, but something God forms in you when you surrender to Him.
The world may reward power, fame, or wealth. But heaven honors the person who walks with God through the fire, stays faithful in the quiet, and leads with compassion and courage. That is the man of valor.
In the end, being a man of valor is not about being fearless—it’s about fearing God more than anything else and trusting Him with everything. And that, truly, is the path to becoming the man God has called you to be.
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