I’ve heard so many people admit how much easier it is to talk about their faith in safe environments like church or Bible study, but when they’re outside the “Christian Zone” they tend to keep their beliefs to themselves. Some keep quiet because they fear being judged, while others worry what others may think of them. For whatever reason, it’s not uncommon for Christians to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable sharing the word of God; however, this shouldn’t be the norm. In Luke 9:26 Jesus said, “Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.” It sounds harsh, but the truth is every time we pass up an opportunity to share our faith story or the good news of the gospel, we’re insulting Jesus and his Father! So how do we gain the confidence to speak God’s truth openly with others?
We can find hope in Acts 4:29, 31 ~
“Now Lord…enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.” And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.”
Life Application~
I love that an ordinary man like Peter, who denied he knew Jesus because he feared for his own life, later became one of the loudest voices proclaiming the good news of Jesus’ resurrection, the need for repentance, and the promise of salvation. In fact, just before he, John and the other believers spoke the above prayer recorded in Acts 4, he and John had been jailed, beaten and told to stop telling others about Jesus. While most of us would rather keep quiet and “fly under the radar” to avoid trouble, the apostles refused to be silent! When faced with suffering, many of us pray for a quick change in our circumstance, however, the apostles instead prayed for the courage to speak God’s word “with great boldness.” And verse 31 in Acts 4 tells us their prayers were answered. So let us join in their prayer to speak boldly and confidently about the word of God and all he’s done for us.
Prayer~
Heavenly Father, fill me with your Holy Spirit so I have the courage to boldly speak your words of truth for all to hear. Stir the hearts of many to openly receive the gospel and help me to share your message of love and hope with all. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
By: Angel Slawinski
