The Believers Pray for Boldness

Have you noticed how secularism has been spreading in countries, schools, in communities and, I am afraid, it is even getting into churches now. in other words, the Christian voice is being shut down, surprisingly, with no resistance. It is becoming so odd for kids to talk with their friends about their faith in schools and even in other places. We, as adults, fall also into the same situation with the kids. Even when our co-workers or friends are in the need of spiritual help, we are still so scare to tell them about the One who can quench their spiritual thirst and meet their needs.

There is a story in the book of Acts about the first century Christians who faced almost the same crisis with what we are having today. In Acts 3, Peter and John, healed a lame person at the entrance of the temple. This got to the ears of the religious leaders during that time. They arrested these two disciples and brought them to justice before the council of Jerusalem (Acts 4). Peter and John were ordered never to talk or teach again in the name of Jesus Christ. Is this not what our today's culture telling us to do?

Now what is your response as a Christian and as the Church? Do we have to comply to this or do we have to do like the apostles? Three things we should consider here:
1. Don't give up, but confront them. That is what Peter and John did. They told them about Jesus and the reason why the man's healing happened.
2. Don't keep from speaking what you have seen and heard. Your personal experience with Jesus is such a great gift for you to use in order to counter every opposition against your faith.
3. Pray for boldness. Always remember Jesus will give you boldness and power to stand against any power or force that strive to hinder your faith/ beliefs.

Friends, the Scripture tells us in Acts 4: 26 that "the kings of the earth took their stand, and the rulers of the earth have gathered together against the Lord and against his Messiah." This is not something that took place already, but is happening now. Like what Jesus says: "pray and watch."

Be blessed and always of good courage!

Emmanuel