Faith That Stands: Courage in the Face of Darkness at Any Age
The call to “be strong and courageous” applies to everyone, not just the influential. At Stonebriar Church, a 72-year-old woman confronted traffickers that targeted an unsuspecting choir member, embodying faith-driven courage. Her actions illustrate that spiritual authority comes from trusting God, inspiring us all to stand against evil regardless of age or status.
DALLAS, TX—When Scripture tells us to “be strong and courageous,” it is not speaking only to the young or the powerful. Courage is not reserved for those with influence or physical strength — it is the gift of faith at work in ordinary people who believe that God will fight for them.
At Stonebriar Church, when traffickers appeared in a place meant for worship, it wasn’t pastors, leaders, or law enforcement who first confronted them. It was a 72-year-old woman. She protected a choir member who didn’t know she was being targeted as a victim.
Her boldness reflected the truth of 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
Her act reminds us that spiritual authority is not about age, status, or position. It comes from knowing God’s presence and trusting His power. Like David against Goliath, like Deborah leading Israel, or like Anna the prophetess who prayed in the temple, this woman reminds us that anyone who is willing to step forward in faith can become a vessel for God’s justice and protection.
We are each called to moments where silence is no longer an option. Evil advances when good people stand back. But when even one person refuses to bow to fear, it can shift the entire spiritual atmosphere.
Let us take inspiration from her example. Whether young or old, seen or unseen, we each carry the power of God’s Spirit. When the time comes, may we, too, be found standing with courage — trusting the God who never leaves us.
Reflection Prayer:
Lord, thank You for showing us that courage is possible at any age. Help us to walk in faith, ready to stand for truth and justice no matter the cost. Use our lives, like this woman’s, to shine Your light where darkness tries to hide. Amen.
Read Alison’s testimony: Survivor Testimony – 72 Year old woman confronts sex traffickers that invaded Stonebriar Church
Editorial Note: This article contains references to allegations, witness testimony, and other reported information. Individuals or organizations named or referred to in this article have disputed or denied allegations concerning their alleged involvement, and their reported responses have varied. Where relevant, those responses are described in the body of this article or elsewhere in this series. The inclusion of an individual’s name should not be interpreted as a finding of civil or criminal liability. Readers are encouraged to review the related articles and supporting source material in this series for additional context.
How Readers Can Respond
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- Learn more about the Stonebriar Church investigation.
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Explore the Stonebriar Church Investigation
Stonebriar Church in Frisco, TX
Stonebriar Community Church is an Evangelical traditional style church located in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex at 4801 Legendary Dr, Frisco, TX 75034. The pastor of Stonebriar Church at the time of this incident was founding pastor Chuck Swindoll, who retired in October 2024. Chuck Swindoll is an evangelical Christian pastor, author, educator, and radio preacher. He founded Insight for Living, and is chancellor emeritus at Dallas Theological Seminary. Jonathan Murphy is the current senior pastor of Stonebriar Church. The church website is: https://www.stonebriar.org
