The Christians of the early church felt that speaking out in Jesus’ name was something worth risking their lives for. It is that important. Let me give you the key to being a bold witness: it is love. Whatever the obstacle that prevents us from being open about our faith it will be dissolved by love. God wants us to see all people as his beloved children and he wants us to be an expression of his love for them. He wants you to lead them back to him by simply being open about your faith. The task is very simple. It starts with showing genuine care. If you don’t care, then keep quiet. You must really care about the person you are speaking to. You must be willing to listen and to let love determine how you respond. Love will eradicate the fear of being rejected because you will no longer focus on what you need from others but rather what others need from you. Love will take away any awkwardness and make your personal witness to Jesus natural and authentic. If you understand what Jesus has done for you, and what he is doing in the world, and if you speak out of genuine love, you will say what is appropriate. There are no rules, just truth and love. Love will open the way and when you really love you will be amazed at the wisdom and insight that will come out of your mouth and the boldness you will find to speak it. Love is the conduit for the transforming power of God.
Ask God to help you see other people as he sees them.
Read Acts 4:18-31 again and 1 Corinthians 13:1-3
