Thursday, July 27 – Acts 26:24-27

While Paul was stating these things in his defense, Festus said in a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind! Your great learning is driving you insane.” But Paul said, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; on the contrary, I am speaking out with truthful and rational words. For the king knows about these matters, and I also speak to him with confidence, since I am persuaded that none of these things escape his notice; for this has not been done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the Prophets? I know that you believe.”

 

Sharing about Jesus requires humility and vulnerability. When we put ourselves out there, it is hard to anticipate how someone else will respond. Paul shared his testimony and was called crazy for it. This was not an easy response to receive after sharing something so personal to him. Yet even in the face of criticism and ridicule, Paul responded with grace. Paul was confident in what God had done, and he did not get stirred up or defensive when he was accused of being crazy.

 

Concerns about the opinion invades many of our thoughts. Before we even share, we anticipate their criticism. If we are confident in our relationship with God and what He has done in us, we do not need to get stirred up by someone else’s reaction. The Lord has given us everything we need to follow His call to make disciples. He has given us His Spirit; He has given us personal stories of His work; and He has given us His Word. Hebrews 13:5-6 reminds us of this truth: “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, ‘I will never desert you, nor will I ever abandon you,’ so that we confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?’” When we believe this truth to our core, we will care more about what God thinks than other people.

 

• What are some reactions you anticipate when you consider sharing about Jesus?
• How can you put your confidence in Christ when you receive difficult reactions from others about what you believe?
• Pray and ask God to help you have boldness to share your faith and for confidence that He will go before you in those moments.