Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, may be given to me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.—Ephesians 6:19 NIV
During the summer of 2019, I knew God wanted me to pause in his presence. Peace surrounded me. Then, in 2020, chaos covered the world and besieged people with desperation. Disease and death loomed in the air. For some, the promise of peace and prosperity evaporated during dire circumstances. But my hope in God remained strong because I stayed in his presence and knew he works in impossible situations. However, I realized life is difficult, and people need someone to believe in.
I felt prompted to step out and share the pure peace available from God. My desire to write about the Lord grew stronger. During a season of despair, He placed the word bold in my heart. I implored God to instill in me a fearless spirit.
Embracing Courage: A Divine Revelation
Then I read about the Graham America Tour event coming to our area. To my surprise, the tour centered on Ephesians 6:19, which confirmed God directing me to have courage. God had a plan for me, which required me to dare to believe he could change my life. A thrill of anticipation enveloped me as if the air sparkled with excitement. Deep within, I experienced a growing anticipation, even though the result remained a mystery.
See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland (Isaiah 43:19, NIV).
Sometimes, people consider boldness boastfulness. After all, shouldn’t Christians walk in humility? Knowing how much He loves us, Glory to God creates certainty in His power. Bravery comes from a relationship with Christ and reliance on Him. Knowing that Jesus forgave and continues to forgive me fills me with peace and confidence in His promises. Our identity is not the past but who the Word of God says we are.
We were unworthy, but our relationships with Christ make us righteous. Realizing our new identity gives us the courage to dare to step forward. In faith, we live our lives confident that we will be with Christ for eternity.
The Transformative Power of Trusting in God's Family
The profound understanding that we are part of God's family can transform us. We dare to place our confidence in the King of kings! He is in control. When our trust is in Christ, our words, actions, and prayers humbly and boldly express it. Relying on God’s promises produces confidence and offers us security in him. As we grow in reliance on him, our testimony becomes more emphatic.
I’ve heard the word ‘bold’ spoken often recently. I believe God wants His church to arise and boldly proclaim the truth. Courage is not in our abilities but assurance in God in all circumstances! When our belief is in Christ, our words, actions, and prayers should convey that with humility. Humility is not prideful when glorifying God.
Our very breath depends upon Christ, not ourselves. Courage comes with knowing who you are in Christ and His purpose for your life. Boldly speak of God’s redemptive love that dwells within you. Don’t delay; bravely stand and speak in the name of Jesus!
But our way is not that of those who shrink back to destruction, but [we are] of those who believe [relying on God through faith in Jesus Christ, the Messiah] and by this confident faith preserve the soul. (Hebrews 10:39, AMP).
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for every opportunity you provide to share Christ with others. My hope is others will accept Christ’s forgiveness as well. Salvation is through belief in Jesus alone. Amen.
Your turn: Consider how you can lovingly and boldly proclaim your faith in difficult times.
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