Compelled To speak
Acts 4:19, "...Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."
Do you have a strong sense of urgency to speak to others about the Lord? Many believers pass up great opportunities to witness to others about the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Often, we don't speak, for fear of some rejection. The apostles spoke as they faced organized opposition and threats from the powerful Jewish leadership. Why? Because they knew it was their responsibility to speak and teach about Jesus.
What have you seen and heard that you have kept silent about? What great things has the Lord revealed to you that you are failing to share with others? Do you know people who are unsaved and need to hear the gospel? Let me encourage you to do two things: first, develop a conviction in your heart believing that you have been commanded by God to speak to others about His goodness and His saving grace. Next, would you pray and ask the Lord to give you boldness to be effective as a witness. Not brazenness, not harshness, not cockiness, but a tender heart to boldly witness to those who need to know more about Jesus. Those in the early church prayed, "...Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word" (Acts 4:29). It will surprise you what God will do with your conviction for the need to speak, and then with the boldness you seek from Him.
God bless you as you grow as a witness for our Lord and Saviour.
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. Do you desire to speak to others about Christ? If you are hesitant, why?
2. Are you able to share the Gospel with others with an open Bible? Will you work on your presentation so that you can improve? What can you do to improve?
3. Do you believe you have a responsibility to speak and teach others about Jesus? How can you best accomplish this?
4. What does Acts 1:8 mean to you? Will you pray about possessing Holy Spirit boldness?
5. Have you ever lead anyone to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ?