Bible Verses About Confidence

by Serena at Stewardship.com

Bible Verses About Confidence

Confidence is trust in someone or something with a high degree of certainty (Logos Factbook). 

What Is Confidence?

How do you feel when you are truly confident? The following bible verses talk about the Psalmist's heart being steadfast, because he was thankful to the Lord and he was trusting in God. The KJV talks uses the word "fixed" in place of steadfast. When a heart is fixed and not shaken, a person would feel secure, safe and sure, not being afraid. 

The bible also teaches us to think reasonably about ourselves: not thinking of ourselves higher than we ought to think. Through that reasonable thinking of knowing ourselves truly, we can then have true confidence in what we know about ourselves.

1 My heart is steadfast, God. I will sing and I will make music with my soul. 2 Wake up, harp and lyre! I will wake up the dawn. 3 I will give thanks to you, The LORD, among the nations. I will sing praises to you among the peoples. (Psalm 108:1–3)

7 He will not be afraid of evil news. His heart is steadfast, trusting in The LORD. 8 His heart is established. He will not be afraid in the end when he sees his adversaries. (Psalm 112:7–8)

3 For I say through the grace that was given me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think; but to think reasonably, as God has apportioned to each person a measure of faith. (Romans 12:3)

We May Not Be What We Feel We Are

It is also interesting that the bible connects the heart with worth, related to self-worth. The following bible verse from Proverbs 10:20 contrasted the tongue of the righteous with the heart of the wicked. Here it is comparing righteousness versus wickedness. 

Even if a wicked person feels confident about himself or herself, or feels great self-worth, but because of the wickedness, the bible says the heart of the wicked is of little worth. Thus, how one feels about oneself does not reflect the truth of one's worth.

20 The tongue of the righteous is like choice silver. The heart of the wicked is of little worth. (Proverbs 10:20)

Confidence Beyond Feelings

True confidence goes beyond feelings.

The bible gives an example where confidence is present in spite of feeling fearful or inadequate.

This example is from the biblical account of king Hezekiah of Judah versus the Sennacherib, king of Assyria from 2 Kings 18. Hezekiah was a good king who followed God, and in his 4th year of reign of Judah (South), the Northern area of Israel which was under a different king, Hoshea, was invaded by the Assyrians.

The Assyrian took three more years to take over the capital, Samaria in Israel. 7 years later, the Assyrian King attacked king Hezekiah's Judah territory and king Hezekiah asked the Assyrian King Sennacherib to withdraw if they would accept silver and gold.

The King of Assyria then sent his field commander Rabshakeh along with other officers to taunt them asking king Hezekiah to basically surrender to them and let them take over. Rabshekah sent the message from king Sennacherib to Hezekiah with this question of what confidence he is putting his trust in to rebel against him. 

The enemies of Hezekiah were not only seeking his downfall and that of his city, but they were also wanting to shake his confidence and faith in his God by the other things they said and threatened.

19 Rabshakeh said to them, “Say now to Hezekiah, ‘The great king, the king of Assyria, says, “What confidence is this in which you trust? (2 Kings 18:19)

4 Rabshakeh said to them, “Now tell Hezekiah, ‘The great king, the king of Assyria, says, “What confidence is this in which you trust? 5 I say that your counsel and strength for the war are only vain words. Now in whom do you trust, that you have rebelled against me? (Isaiah 36:4–5)

Hezekiah turned to God about it. Then, the prophet Isaiah sent a message from God to Hezekiah to not be afraid of the taunts and that God will make Sennacherib return to his own country and strike hm down.

5 So the servants of King Hezekiah came to Isaiah. 6 Isaiah said to them, “Tell your master this: ‘The LORD says, “Don’t be afraid of the words that you have heard, with which the servants of the king of Assyria have blasphemed me. 7 Behold, I will put a spirit in him, and he will hear news, and will return to his own land. I will cause him to fall by the sword in his own land. (2 Kings 19:5–7)

Against the huge pressure of death threats and threats of war against his countrymen, Hezekiah continued to have confidence in God, although it was a challenge and he was fearful. His confidence in God went beyond his fear and inadequacies.

Confidence In Times Of Fear

The following bible verses encourage us that even though at times when we don't feel confident, we can still put our confidence in God, because he is the same God yesterday, today and tomorrow. 

Behold, if a river overflows, he doesn’t tremble. He is confident, though the Jordan swells even to his mouth. (Job 40:23)

3 Though an army should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear. Though war should rise against me, even then I will be confident. 4 One thing I have asked of The LORD, that I will seek after: that I may dwell in The LORD’s house all the days of my life, to see The LORD’s beauty, and to inquire in his temple. 5 For in the day of trouble, he will keep me secretly in his pavilion. In the secret place of his tabernacle, he will hide me. He will lift me up on a rock. 6 Now my head will be lifted up above my enemies around me. I will offer sacrifices of joy in his tent. I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to The LORD. (Psalm 27:3–6)

25 Don’t be afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it comes; 26 for The LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being taken. (Proverbs 3:25–26)

What Can We Be Confident About?

When we think of self-confidence, we may think of the good things we have or good qualities of ourselves. This is a good thing to help us know our own strengths but it can be a problem if we share it to others inappropriately. 

I had a problem with this in the past when I tried to prove my worth and credibility to my colleagues at work by boasting about my achievements, so that they will see that I deserve my position and so that they will accept me. But I learned that had only turned them off from me. I had overcompensated for my inadequacies by boasting in that situation.

Thankfully, the bible has guidance in this area. The bible teaches us to boast only in the Lord and to seek the glory that comes from God instead of men. This helps keep our eyes on God and seeing his hand in our lives, and giving him the thanks and praises that are due him.

17 But “he who boasts, let him boast in the Lord.” 18 For it isn’t he who commends himself who is approved, but whom the Lord commends. (2 Corinthians 10:17–18)

5 On behalf of such a one I will boast, but on my own behalf I will not boast, except in my weaknesses. 6 For if I would desire to boast, I will not be foolish; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, so that no man may think more of me than that which he sees in me or hears from me. (2 Corinthians 12:5–6)

How can you believe, who receive glory from one another, and you don’t seek the glory that comes from the only God? (John 5:44)

4 Blessed is the man who makes The LORD his trust, and doesn’t respect the proud, nor such as turn away to lies. 5 Many, The LORD, my God, are the wonderful works which you have done, and your thoughts which are toward us. They can’t be declared back to you. If I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be counted. (Psalm 40:4–5)

As the following bible verse in Luke 22:59 talks about the confidence of the person recognizing Peter as one of Jesus' disciple when Peter was denying that fact. 

We are usually pretty confident when we are sure of certain facts.

After about one hour passed, another confidently affirmed, saying, “Truly this man also was with him, for he is a Galilean!” (Luke 22:59)

Bible verses about confidence
Bible verses about confidence

Here are some factual reasons why we can put our confidence in God.

Reasons To Put Our Confidence In God 

1. God Can Help Us

8 "An arm of flesh is with him, but The LORD our God is with us to help us and to fight our battles.” The people rested themselves on the words of Hezekiah king of Judah. (2 Chronicles 32:8)

This is the boldness which we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he listens to us. (1 John 5:14)

2. God Raises The Dead

8 For we don’t desire to have you uninformed, brothers, concerning our affliction which happened to us in Asia: that we were weighed down exceedingly, beyond our power, so much that we despaired even of life. 9 Yes, we ourselves have had the sentence of death within ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead, 10 who delivered us out of so great a death, and does deliver, on whom we have set our hope that he will also still deliver us, 11 you also helping together on our behalf by your supplication; that, for the gift given to us by means of many, thanks may be given by many persons on your behalf. (2 Corinthians 1:8–11)

3. God's Promises Are Real

5 Be free from the love of money, content with such things as you have, for he has said, “I will in no way leave you, neither will I in any way forsake you.” 6 So that with good courage we say, “The Lord is my helper. I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:5–6)

20 Yet, looking to the promise of God, he didn’t waver through unbelief, but grew strong through faith, giving glory to God, 21 and being fully assured that what he had promised, he was also able to perform. (Romans 4:20–21)

4. God's Words Are 100% Reliable And Trustworthy

19 We have the more sure word of prophecy; and you do well that you heed it as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts, 20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of private interpretation. (2 Peter 1:19–20)

14 But you remain in the things which you have learned and have been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them. 15 From infancy, you have known the holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 3:14–15)

16 Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, 17 that each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16–17)

30 Paul stayed two whole years in his own rented house and received all who were coming to him, 31 preaching God’s Kingdom and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness, without hindrance. (Acts 28:30–31)

The work of righteousness will be peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever. (Isaiah 32:17)

Confidence In The LORD

The bible verses below tell us that we can put our confidence in The LORD, God. We can trust him fully. He is more trust worthy than anything or any person in the world. To read more about trusting God, click here.

“Blessed is the man who trusts in The LORD, and whose confidence is in The LORD. (Jeremiah 17:7)

for The LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being taken. (Proverbs 3:26)

Trust in The LORD with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. (Proverbs 3:5)

It is better to take refuge in The LORD, than to put confidence in man. 9 It is better to take refuge in The LORD, than to put confidence in princes. (Psalm 118:8–9)

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we trust in the name of The LORD our God. (Psalm 20:7)

13 I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of The LORD in the land of the living. 14 Wait for The LORD. Be strong, and let your heart take courage. Yes, wait for The LORD. (Psalm 27:13–14)

For you are my hope, Lord The LORD, my confidence from my youth. (Psalm 71:5)

Confidence In Jesus

The bible verses below tell us that we can put our confidence in Jesus. To read more about trusting in Jesus, click here. Because of what Jesus had done for us to make us right with God, we can now be confident through his promise that he has taken our sins and if we believe in Jesus and repent of our ways, he can cleanse us of all our guilt and make us new.

4 Such confidence we have through Christ toward God, 5 not that we are sufficient of ourselves to account anything as from ourselves; but our sufficiency is from God, 6 who also made us sufficient as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. (2 Corinthians 3:4–6)

19 Having therefore, brothers, boldness to enter into the holy place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the way which he dedicated for us, a new and living way, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh, 21 and having a great priest over God’s house, 22 let’s draw near with a true heart in fullness of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and having our body washed with pure water, 23 let’s hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering; for he who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10:19–23)

13 but exhort one another day by day, so long as it is called “today”, lest any one of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we have become partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence firm to the end, 15 while it is said, “Today if you will hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts, as in the rebellion.” (Hebrews 3:13–15)

5 Moses indeed was faithful in all his house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were afterward to be spoken, 6 but Christ is faithful as a Son over his house. We are his house, if we hold fast our confidence and the glorying of our hope firm to the end. 7 Therefore, even as the Holy Spirit says, “Today if you will hear his voice, (Hebrews 3:5–7)

16 Let’s therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace for help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

25 Having this confidence, I know that I will remain, yes, and remain with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 that your boasting may abound in Christ Jesus in me through my presence with you again. (Philippians 1:25–26)

3 I thank my God whenever I remember you, 4 always in every request of mine on behalf of you all, making my requests with joy, 5 for your partnership in furtherance of the Good News from the first day until now; 6 being confident of this very thing, that he who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:3–6)

1 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who don’t walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. (Romans 8:1)

Confidence In Our Relationship With Jesus 

Besides placing our confidence in Jesus, the following bible verses also tell us that we can be confident in our relationship with Jesus. Jesus calls us his friends as he has made known God to us.

The Old Testament bible verses in Jeremiah 9 below also encouraged people to think about their relationship with God and be confident in that relationship rather than their riches, power or wisdom.

Jesus assures us that he is present where 2 or 3 are gathered in his name and if 2 of them agree concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them. We would need to ask according to God's will. 

15 No longer do I call you servants, for the servant doesn’t know what his lord does. But I have called you friends, for everything that I heard from my Father, I have made known to you. (John 15:15)

23 The LORD says, “Don’t let the wise man glory in his wisdom. Don’t let the mighty man glory in his might. Don’t let the rich man glory in his riches. 24 But let him who glories glory in this, that he has understanding, and knows me, that I am The LORD who exercises loving kindness, justice, and righteousness in the earth, for I delight in these things,” says The LORD. (Jeremiah 9:23–24)

19 Again, assuredly I tell you, that if two of you will agree on earth concerning anything that they will ask, it will be done for them by my Father who is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am in the middle of them.” (Matthew 18:19-20)

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: (1 John 5:14, KJV)

Confidence In Our Hope Of Eternal Life

The bible verses below here tell us about the hope we can receive about our eternal life through Jesus. We can be confident in this hope that we have, knowing where we are heading to in our eternal destiny. To read more about hope in hard times, click here.

7 that being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8 This saying is faithful, and concerning these things I desire that you insist confidently, so that those who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men; 9 but shun foolish questionings, genealogies, strife, and disputes about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. (Titus 3:7–9)

6 Therefore we are always confident and know that while we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord; 7 for we walk by faith, not by sight. (2 Corinthians 5:6–7)

Confidence In Fellowship

The bible verses below talk about the author Paul and his confidence towards his fellow believers in Corinth, Thessalonica, Galatia and to Philemon. He has confidence towards these people who share the same faith as him. 

This is a reminder for us not to be solo rangers in our faith. We can attend a Church that follows his biblical teachings to meet people who share the same faith. We can attend a small group at church so that we can get to know the people better.

With mutual encouragement, we can go further in our journey of faith together.

15 His affection is more abundantly toward you, while he remembers all of your obedience, how with fear and trembling you received him. 16 I rejoice that in everything I am confident concerning you. (2 Corinthians 7:15–16)

Great is my boldness of speech toward you. Great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort. I overflow with joy in all our affliction. (2 Corinthians 7:4)

We have sent with them our brother whom we have many times proved earnest in many things, but now much more earnest, by reason of the great confidence which he has in you. (2 Corinthians 8:22)

3 But I have sent the brothers so that our boasting on your behalf may not be in vain in this respect, that, just as I said, you may be prepared, 4 lest by any means, if anyone from Macedonia comes there with me and finds you unprepared, we (to say nothing of you) would be disappointed in this confident boasting. (2 Corinthians 9:3–4)

4 We have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you both do and will do the things we command. (2 Thessalonians 3:4)

21 Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even beyond what I say. (Philemon 21)

2 For if I make you grieve, then who will make me glad but he who is made to grieve by me? 3 And I wrote this very thing to you, so that when I came, I wouldn’t have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all that my joy would be shared by all of you. 4 For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you with many tears, not that you should be made to grieve, but that you might know the love that I have so abundantly for you. (2 Corinthians 2:2–4)

10 I have confidence toward you in the Lord that you will think no other way. But he who troubles you will bear his judgment, whoever he is. (Galatians 5:10)

Confidence Through Our Identity In God

If you are struggling with self-confidence or your identity, I encourage you to read through the list of your identity in Christ from Neil Anderson, click this link here to go to their resource on "Who I Am In Christ" from Freedom In Christ Ministry: https://www.ficm.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/who-i-am-in-christ05.pdf

The following are some other bible verses that also tell us who we are. Here are some of our identity in God and In Jesus. It is a shorter list than the one from Neil Anderson above.

Identity As Believers

17 If you call on him as Father, who without respect of persons judges according to each man’s work, pass the time of your living as foreigners here in reverent fear, 18 knowing that you were redeemed, not with corruptible things like silver or gold, from the useless way of life handed down from your fathers, 19 but with precious blood, as of a lamb without blemish or spot, the blood of Christ, 20 who was foreknown indeed before the foundation of the world, but was revealed in this last age for your sake, 21 who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope might be in God. (1 Peter 1:17–21)

 Identity As Children Of God

1 See how great a love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God! For this cause the world doesn’t know us, because it didn’t know him. 2 Beloved, now we are children of God. It is not yet revealed what we will be; but we know that when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him just as he is. 3 Everyone who has this hope set on him purifies himself, even as he is pure. (1 John 3:1–3)

You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because greater is he who is in you than he who is in the world. (1 John 4:4)

In the past, you were not a people, but now are God’s people, who had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. (1 Peter 2:10)

5 You are all children of light and children of the day. We don’t belong to the night, nor to darkness, 6 so then let’s not sleep, as the rest do, but let’s watch and be sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep in the night; and those who are drunk are drunk in the night. 8 But since we belong to the day, let’s be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet, the hope of salvation. 9 For God didn’t appoint us to wrath, but to the obtaining of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. (1 Thessalonians 5:5–10)

Identity As Chosen By God

4 We know, brothers loved by God, that you are chosen, 5 and that our Good News came to you not in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and with much assurance. You know what kind of men we showed ourselves to be among you for your sake. (1 Thessalonians 1:4–5)

Identity Belonging To Jesus

7 Do you look at things only as they appear in front of your face? If anyone trusts in himself that he is Christ’s, let him consider this again with himself, that even as he is Christ’s, so we also are Christ’s. (2 Corinthians 10:7)

Identity In The Fellowship

20 For you are our glory and our joy. (1 Thessalonians 2:20)

13 For we write no other things to you than what you read or even acknowledge, and I hope you will acknowledge to the end— 14 as also you acknowledged us in part—that we are your boasting, even as you also are ours, in the day of our Lord Jesus. 15 In this confidence, I was determined to come first to you, that you might have a second benefit, 16 and by you to pass into Macedonia, and again from Macedonia to come to you, and to be sent forward by you on my journey to Judea. (2 Corinthians 1:13–16)

What Do We Gain By Having Confidence In God?

1. We Gain Courage From God

When we put our confidence in God, we will have boldness and courage through our faith in him, according to the bible verses below. 

12 In him we have boldness and access in confidence through our faith in him. (Ephesians 3:12)

35 Therefore don’t throw away your boldness, which has a great reward. (Hebrews 10:35)

12 Having therefore such a hope, we use great boldness of speech, 13 and not as Moses, who put a veil on his face so that the children of Israel wouldn’t look steadfastly on the end of that which was passing away. (2 Corinthians 3:12–13)

2. We Gain Security From God

You will be secure, because there is hope. Yes, you will search, and will take your rest in safety. (Job 11:18)

In the fear of The LORD is a secure fortress, and he will be a refuge for his children. (Proverbs 14:26)

In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: And his children shall have a place of refuge. (Proverbs 14:26, KJV)

And they shall dwell safely therein, and shall build houses, and plant vineyards; yea, they shall dwell with confidence, when I have executed judgments upon all those that despise them round about them; and they shall know that I am the Lord their God. (Ezekiel 28:26, KJV)

15 For thus said the Lord The LORD, the Holy One of Israel, “You will be saved in returning and rest. Your strength will be in quietness and in confidence.” You refused, 16 but you said, “No, for we will flee on horses;” therefore you will flee; and, “We will ride on the swift;” therefore those who pursue you will be swift. (Isaiah 30:15–16)

3. We Will Have Confidence In The Good News Of God

When the bible verses below in Colossians 2 talk about gaining all riches of the full assurance of understanding, it is about having confidence in knowing that what we believe about God is fully true. 

1 For I desire to have you know how greatly I struggle for you and for those at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; 2 that their hearts may be comforted, they being knit together in love, and gaining all riches of the full assurance of understanding, that they may know the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, 3 in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden. 4 Now I say this that no one may delude you with persuasiveness of speech. (Colossians 2:1–4)

 4 We know, brothers loved by God, that you are chosen, 5 and that our Good News came to you not in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and with much assurance. You know what kind of men we showed ourselves to be among you for your sake. (1 Thessalonians 1:4–5)

5. We Will Have Confidence In Sharing God's Words

12 Now I desire to have you know, brothers, that the things which happened to me have turned out rather to the progress of the Good News, 13 so that it became evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my bonds are in Christ, 14 and that most of the brothers in the Lord, being confident through my bonds, are more abundantly bold to speak the word of God without fear. (Philippians 1:12–14)

6. We Can Stand Before God Without Fear Of Judgment

28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. 29 If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him. (1 John 2:28–29, KJV)

21 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. (1 John 3:21, KJV)

17 In this, love has been made perfect among us, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment, because as he is, even so we are in this world. (1 John 4:17)

Our Model Of Confidence In Jesus

Jesus Taught With Confidence

Throughout the New Testament's recording of Jesus' teaching, they showed that Jesus taught with authority and with confidence in what he says. This is because Jesus is the source of truth and He is from God. You will read that Jesus will say things like "Truly I say to you", or "Most certainly I tell you". 

Jesus is a confident teacher of God's words and His ways. He does not apologize for his difficult to accept teachings back in those days, even though it did not sit well with some of his listeners then. 

Bible verses about Confidence

28 When Jesus had finished saying these things, the multitudes were astonished at his teaching, 29 for he taught them with authority, and not like the scribes. (Matthew 7:28–29) 

22 They were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as having authority, and not as the scribes. (Mark 1:22) 

Jesus said to them, “Most certainly I tell you that you who have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on the throne of his glory, you also will sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Matthew 19:28)

18 Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. (Matthew 28:18–20)

Jesus Is Confident Yet Also Humble

The bible verses below here share a bit about Jesus' humility. Jesus humbled himself when he had to take the form of a man even though he was existing in the form of God before. The even more humbling part is to die on the cross in order to fulfill God's plan to save humans from their sins. 

Jesus also fulfilled the prophecy that he will come to Jerusalem sitting on a donkey's colt with people calling him the King of Israel. He did not ask for any handsome horse but a humble donkey colt. I would like to think that the modern day equivalent would be instead of arriving in a golden carriage as a king, a humble king would come riding on a BMX bicycle. Something like that to give the idea.

5 Have this in your mind, which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, existing in the form of God, didn’t consider equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, yes, the death of the cross. 9 Therefore God also highly exalted him, and gave to him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:5–11)

12 On the next day a great multitude had come to the feast. When they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, 13 they took the branches of the palm trees and went out to meet him, and cried out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, the King of Israel!” 14 Jesus, having found a young donkey, sat on it. As it is written, 15“Don’t be afraid, daughter of Zion. Behold, your King comes, sitting on a donkey’s colt.” (John 12:12–15) 

35 Then they brought it to Jesus. They threw their cloaks on the colt and sat Jesus on them. 36 As he went, they spread their cloaks on the road. (Luke 19:35–36)

15 Rejoice with those who rejoice. Weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind one toward another. Don’t set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Don’t be wise in your own conceits. (Romans 12:15–16)

Jesus Serves Humbly With Confidence

Jesus combines his humility with his confidence seamlessly in these bible verses below from John 13 where he was confident of his identity, where he is going, of the plan ahead from God, and that he would be King of Kings and Lord of Lords one day. With all that confidence, he bent down in humility as a servant and washed his disciples' feet, even Judas, the one who later betrayed him.

He taught us to serve with humility too. He is a great example for us, that no matter what ranks we hold, we need to remember to be humble even to people lower than us and seek to truly serve them. To read more regarding bible verses about leadership, click here.

Serving God through serving others can help you gain confidence and if you do it with other believers, you will also be able to experience the joy from fellowship.

2 During supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, 3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he came from God and was going to God, 4 arose from supper, and laid aside his outer garments. He took a towel and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. (John 13:2–5)

14 If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should also do as I have done to you. 16 Most certainly I tell you, a servant is not greater than his lord, neither is one who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. (John 13:14–17) 

For the Son of Man also came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)

13 For those who have served well gain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. (1 Timothy 3:13)

Confidence Gone Wrong

Confidence Betrayed

The bible verses warn us that not to betray someone's confidence, through gossiping, or even when we are trying to make a point in a debate. Of course the exception would be if someone is telling you a secret of them wanting to commit suicide or kill others, we would have to inform the authorities in order to help this person or to prevent harm to others.

13 One who brings gossip betrays a confidence, but one who is of a trustworthy spirit is one who keeps a secret. (Proverbs 11:13)

9 Debate your case with your neighbor, and don’t betray the confidence of another, 10 lest one who hears it put you to shame, and your bad reputation never depart. (Proverbs 25:9–10)

Confidence Wrongly Placed

The following bible verses caution us against placing confidence in the wrong people, or leaders to provide us the answers or help that we need. We can prevent this by praying to God for guidance to show us the people that we can truly trust.

If the people you are putting confidence in are going down a path that God is not happy about, it is a high chance that those people are the wrong people to put your confidence in.

Stop trusting in man, whose breath is in his nostrils; for of what account is he? (Isaiah 2:22)

5 The LORD says: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man, relies on strength of flesh, and whose heart departs from The LORD. 6 For he will be like a bush in the desert, and will not see when good comes, but will inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, an uninhabited salt land. (Jeremiah 17:5–6)

37 You will also leave that place with your hands on your head; for The LORD has rejected those in whom you trust, and you won’t prosper with them. (Jeremiah 2:37)

7 At that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said to him, “Because you have relied on the king of Syria, and have not relied on The LORD your God, therefore the army of the king of Syria has escaped out of your hand." (2 Chronicles 16:7)

13 So are the paths of all who forget God. The hope of the godless man will perish, 14 whose confidence will break apart, whose trust is a spider’s web. 15 He will lean on his house, but it will not stand. He will cling to it, but it will not endure. (Job 8:13–15)

5 Don’t trust in a neighbor. Don’t put confidence in a friend. With the woman lying in your embrace, be careful of the words of your mouth! 6 For the son dishonors the father, the daughter rises up against her mother, the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; a man’s enemies are the men of his own house. 7 But as for me, I will look to The LORD. I will wait for the God of my salvation. My God will hear me. (Micah 7:5–7)

19 Confidence in someone unfaithful in time of trouble is like a bad tooth or a lame foot. (Proverbs 25:19)

3 Don’t put your trust in princes, in a son of man in whom there is no help. 4 His spirit departs, and he returns to the earth. In that very day, his thoughts perish. (Psalm 146:3–4)

22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 and traded the glory of the incorruptible God for the likeness of an image of corruptible man, and of birds, four-footed animals, and creeping things. (Romans 1:22–23)

13 When Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah his wound, then Ephraim went to Assyria, and sent to King Jareb: but he is not able to heal you, neither will he cure you of your wound. (Hosea 5:13)

Moab will be ashamed of Chemosh, as the house of Israel was ashamed of Bethel, their confidence. (Jeremiah 48:13)

11 Ephraim is like an easily deceived dove, without understanding. They call to Egypt. They go to Assyria. (Hosea 7:11)

Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, and rely on horses, and trust in chariots because they are many, and in horsemen because they are very strong, but they don’t look to the Holy One of Israel, and they don’t seek The LORD! (Isaiah 31:1)

16 It will no longer be the confidence of the house of Israel, bringing iniquity to memory, when they turn to look after them. Then they will know that I am the Lord God. (Ezekiel 29:16)

False Confidence

The following bible verses talk of confidence that someone thinks they have but God sees them as being self-deceptive, or a false kind of confidence. This happens if someone thinks they are something when they are are nothing or if they are wise in their own eyes.

This can also happen if confidence is placed in one's possessions or power as the ultimate source of security and strength, rather than in God, because sometimes circumstances can come that changes those things.

2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if a man thinks himself to be something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4 But let each man examine his own work, and then he will have reason to boast in himself, and not in someone else. 5 For each man will bear his own burden. (Galatians 6:2–5)

22 A wise man scales the city of the mighty, and brings down the strength of its confidence. (Proverbs 21:22)

12 Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. (Proverbs 26:12)

6 For I will not trust in my bow, neither will my sword save me. (Psalm 44:6)

17 Indeed you bear the name of a Jew, rest on the law, glory in God, 18 know his will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law, 19 and are confident that you yourself are a guide of the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, 20 a corrector of the foolish, a teacher of babies, having in the law the form of knowledge and of the truth. 21 You therefore who teach another, don’t you teach yourself? You who preach that a man shouldn’t steal, do you steal? (Romans 2:17–21)

6 Then he answered and spoke to me, saying, “This is The LORD’s word to Zerubbabel, saying, ‘Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says The LORD of Armies. 7 Who are you, great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you are a plain; and he will bring out the capstone with shouts of ‘Grace, grace, to it!’ ” (Zechariah 4:6–7)

A horse is a vain thing for safety, neither does he deliver any by his great power. (Psalm 33:17)

Over Confidence

The following bible verse also reflects to us how sometimes over-confidence is not a true confidence. In this case, Peter was telling Jesus that he will lay down his life for Jesus and he wants to follow where Jesus is going. Jesus simply told him the prophecy that Peter will actually deny Jesus 3 times before the rooster crows.

Sometimes we may over estimate ourselves realistically and think that we can commit to something when we actually cannot when it happens. In this case, Peter had good intentions of wanting to follow Jesus and lay down his life for Jesus, but that was when it was easy to do so, when there was no persecution.

But when Jesus was arrested and persecuted, the confidence Peter had left him and he denied knowing Jesus 3 times.

37 Peter said to him, “Lord, why can’t I follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” 38 Jesus answered him, “Will you lay down your life for me? Most certainly I tell you, the rooster won’t crow until you have denied me three times. (John 13:37–38)

Over confidence can also lead to pride, which we will look at in a future post.

Bible verses about confidence

Bible version: the public domain World English Bible (WEB) has been used throughout this post. The WEB translation of "Yahweh" has been changed to "the LORD" which is more familiar to most readers.

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