Title: Standing Up for God/Topic: Witnessing

Today’s Reading: Job 25; Mark 13; Mark 14

Scripture: Mark 13:9-11
9 "You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues. On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. 10 And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. 11 Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.

Observation: When I read this I thought, “Lord, I have failed you so many times in boldly witnessing to people about your saving power. How can I be sure I will not fail you if I am being hauled up before governors and kings?”. I am too worried about offending people's sensibilities. But I know that whenever I am asked about my faith, I do share it boldly. Maybe it is easier to be a witness when backed up against the wall such as Jesus is describing here. I must trust that God's grace in my life will help me not only if I must face death because of my belief that Jesus is the only way to salvation but also when I have an opportunity to share with someone and possibly lead them to Jesus.

Application/Prayer: Give me more boldness, Lord! You told us to “work while it is still day”. Help me to serve you well and to tell others the way of salvation without thinking of how they may reject me if they are closed to the gospel. People need you so desperately and I want to be a soul-winner. Give me opportunities and wisdom in sharing the Word of Life with others.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.