Boldness – The Disciple-Making Lifestyle

Have you ever found yourself thinking, “Surely I’m not alone?” There must be other Christians who are afraid to witness. You may also have been tempted to adopt this line of reasoning – “If timidity is widespread among my fellow church-members and few know how to witness, then why can’t I just be comfortable blending-in with the crowd?” The answer is, “You can!” Going to heaven has nothing to do with your willingness to witness. However, it has everything to do with succeeding at your mission as a Christian. The real question is – how genuinely do you want to hear God say:

“…well done My good and faithful servant…” (Matthew 25:21)

Imagine such an affirmation! This can be your heavenly Father’s greeting. The pre-requisite is truly choosing to invest your life in willing obedience to His Son. Remember that life’s highest purpose is to live in close personal relationship with Him! The Bible says, “God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:9) Boldness grows naturally through fellowship with our Savior!

If those you associate with are not being drawn to the Savior through your friendship, then something is still lacking in your witness. If that’s true, then it’s time for you to pray about becoming both “saltier” and “brighter!” Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) The searching question is this, when people come to know you – do they begin thinking more seriously – about wanting to know your Savior?

Like everything else in life that is truly valuable, sharing your faith requires an intentional desire to grow (see 2 Peter 3:18). The conscious decision to remain lukewarm is beneath you and totally unacceptable (see Revelation 3:16). However, adopting a rewarding lifestyle of full-hearted Christian commitment is sustained by spending quality time with our Master. This is why having a consistent daily quiet time is so important. Remember that bold Christian testimonies do not normally come from trying harder – but from loving God more deeply!

Lukewarmness and timidity always retreat in the face of growing love for God. They simply cannot co-exist because love and fear are spiritual opposites. Never forget that God’s love always overpowers our fear! (1 John 4:18) The Bible explains,

“…God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, love and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

Every morning as you enjoy reading your Bible, ask the Lord to renew your boldness. He will both guide you (see Psalm 32:8) and give you strength for the day. It is His desire and enduring plan that we demonstrate our love for Him by faithfully sharing our testimony with others!