Bravery is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to embrace it, continue to function within it, and soldier on in the face of adversity and mortal danger.

If, by your courage and your actions, you can instill mortal fear into your enemies, it may give them pause for thought before they proceed in their aggressiveness. If they truly believe they may sacrifice their very lives when attacking you, it will help provide for your defense.

If, by them provoking a situation where they believe they hold the upper hand, where your one accurate shot will splatter their brains, then they may reconsider the potential ramifications of their actions.

It always happens to the other guy.  Right?