Monday, February 21 – Acts 4:1-4

As they were speaking to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to them, being greatly disturbed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. And they laid hands on them and put them in prison until the next day, for it was already evening. But many of those who had heard the message believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.

As followers of Jesus, one of the primary obstacles we often have to sharing our faith comes from wondering what people will think or what the response will be if we do share. After sharing the gospel and being received by the crowds, Peter and John hit some resistance. Some of the religious leaders became disturbed and threw them into prison.

It’s easy to think of Peter and John (and the other apostles) as spiritual superheroes who were so much better and bolder than we could ever be. We should remember that this was the same Peter who rejected Jesus. It was the same Peter who started sinking when he saw the waves. Boldness doesn’t come naturally to many of us. Spiritual boldness requires sacrifice and, most importantly, the Spirit at work inside of us. Philippians 2:13 says, “for it is God who is at work in you, both to desire and to work for His good pleasure.” When you feel weak and discouraged, that’s okay! On our own strength, this is an impossible calling, but we can trust the power of God at work in us. He will equip us for what He has called us to do. God’s strong, powerful, loving Holy Spirit was given to you for a reason and a purpose. It is His strength in the gospel that gives us hope and confidence to share with others, no matter what the cost. Even in oppression and hardship, His church will grow and thrive. Praise be to God!

• What are some of your fears about sharing your faith?
• Who can you share your faith with? When is a time you can dedicate to praying for that person
• Pray and thank God for His Holy Spirit. Ask Him to speak through you and give you the opportunity to share the gospel with someone else.