Are there consequences to a lack of courage?

Luke 23:13-25Then Pilate called together the leading priests and other religious leaders, along with the people, and he announced his verdict. “You brought this man to me, accusing him of leading a revolt. I have examined him thoroughly on this point in your presence and find him innocent. . . . So I will have him flogged, and then I will release him.” Then a mighty roar rose from the crowd, and with one voice they shouted, “Kill him, and release Barabbas to us!” . . . Pilate argued with them, because he wanted to release Jesus. But they kept shouting, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” For the third time he demanded, “Why? What crime has he committed? I have found no reason to sentence him to death.” . . . But the mob shouted louder and louder, demanding that Jesus be crucified, and their voices prevailed. So Pilate sentenced Jesus to die as they demanded. As they had requested, he released Barabbas, the man in prison for insurrection and murder. But he turned Jesus over to them to do as they wished.

Pilate knew Jesus had done nothing worthy of death, but because he was afraid of the crowd and afraid for his official position, he caved and sent Jesus to his death. Standing up for what is right may get you in trouble with corrupt people, but it is ultimately worse to lose integrity and act against your conscience, doing wrong because you lack courage.