Be bold!

Ann Jahns

When it comes to common phobias, what do you think ranks toward the top? . . . It’s the fear of public speaking. 

Speaking in front of a group—and the vulnerability it entails—is truly terrifying for so many of us. Are your palms sweating just envisioning it? But what about as a believer? What is your greatest fear? Perhaps it’s this: speaking to others about your faith. What if you don’t know what to say? What if you say something that’s just plain wrong? What if you’re ridiculed or even harmed for speaking about your hope in Christ?

Even Moses, one of the pillars of faith in the Old Testament and God’s chosen spokesperson, didn’t feel qualified to speak to others on God’s behalf. In Exodus 4:10, Moses lamented to God: “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent. . . . I am slow of speech and tongue.” But God gently rebuked him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? . . . Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say” (verses 11,12).

So, be bold! You’re God’s instrument on this earth—his chosen spokesperson. You and I can share the hope that we have in Christ, even if it scares us. God will help us speak. And remember: we don’t have the responsibility—or the power—to create faith in someone. That’s God’s work through the Holy Spirit. But it is our responsibility to share the hope that we have in Christ.

Devotion used by permission of Time of Grace®. For more information, visit timeofgrace.org