James McDonald describes boldness as "candor (honesty and sincerity) in the face of opposition." Another writer suggests that when we are living our lives "avoiding conflict" then we are most likely not being bold for Christ.
One of the questions that I posed on Sunday was this: What is going on in my heart when I am not bold? What am I fearful about? Am I holding onto something and am I afraid of losing something?
In answer to this question at some level there is some selfishness involved on our part. If we think about boldness in relation to our witness for Christ, then when I don't speak up about God's truth I am thinking more of myself and my own comfort, than the need that the other person has for Christ in their life. I suppress the truth of God, that I have come to know and believe, for the sake of not offending the other person, or possibly not being liked by them. In essence we have placed the opinions of how others perceive and receive us as being more important than being obedient to God and telling them about His love for them.
At another level it is a lack of trust in God on our part. We are telling God that we are not sure if we can trust Him with this relationship. "God if I tell this person about you, they might not like me, or they might get angry at me; and I'm not sure if I'm up to dealing with that rejection, and if that happens I don't think you can help me with that." This is what we are saying to God each time we choose not to speak up for Christ. But here's the deal (we know this), if God loves me and accepts me because of Christ's redemptive sacrifice; when others don't like me, or get angry at me, or reject me, they are in reality rejecting God and His truth to them. Yes, it hurts, but God is always with us (He never leaves us or forsakes us); His love will comfort us in our loss, and His Word of truth spoken in love to this other person will have and make an impact. In reality there's too much at stake not to tell them the truth. We must, even when there is great risk.
So, what do we do? First, ask the Lord to forgive us for putting the opinions and perceptions of others about us, above God and His call to obey Him. Secondly, ask God to give you boldness just like the early church did in Acts 4. "Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness." Acts 4:29 Third, make time with Jesus a priority in your life each day. Proverbs 28:1 says, "The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." Our righteousness comes from Christ Himself, He is our righteousness; so boldness will come as we walk with Him and in the power of His righteousness. Finally, realize that there is a risk in being bold for Christ, but the risk is worth it if one person is added to the Kingdom. Let's do all we can to be bold for Christ and seek to share His love with others.
Prayer - Lord, forgive us when we place the opinions and perceptions of others above your command to go and tell others about you. As you granted to the Apostles and to the church in Acts chapter 4, we pray for boldness in telling others about your awesome and amazing love. We know the risk, we see the possibility of rejection and even ridicule; yet for your sake and glory we choose today to speak up for you. Bless us today and grant to us opportunities to share your love with others. In Christ name we pray, Amen.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this, so feel free to join in on the conversation. Have a great week and we will see you soon.
Pastor Mike
