Praying for boldness!
Scripture reading for May 9: Acts 4
“. . .for truly in this city there were gathered together against Your Holy Servant Jesus, Whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, to do whatever Your hand and Your plan had predestined to take place. And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to Your servants to continue to speak Your Word with all boldness, while You stretch out Your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the Name of Your Holy Servant Jesus.” And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the Word of God with boldness.” Acts 4:27-31
The early church and it’s leadership faced great opposition from many quarters. The government of King Herod and governor Pontius Pilate had both helped in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. They were Gentiles, as were the soldiers of Rome who actually crucified Him. The Jewish people and religious leaders had brought the accusations and forced the crucifixion and also had guilt. But as these persecuted believers gathered for prayer, they asked for increased boldness to speak the Word of God. They trusted that as they preached, Jesus would work with them performing signs and wonders as they obeyed and believed. As they prayed, it was recorded that God shook the place and there was a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit.
The result of the infilling of the Holy Spirit was increased boldness and confidence to preach. It does not say whether they spoke in tongues again here, but that was the accompanying sign at their initial infilling. (Acts 2:4) Opposition did not bring a request that God deal with those opposing. They did not pray to be taken out of the situation or to be protected from harm. Their focus was on their mission to reach lost people, Jew or Gentile, rulers or citizens. They knew that God was working and would not fail them.
What do you normally pray for when you face difficulties or spiritual opposition? Do you look at each situation from the world view of God working out what He had purposed? Have you ever prayed for boldness to preach the Good News of Jesus Christ?
Prayer: Father God, many times I have prayed for superficial needs or for my own comfort and safety when facing opposition. Forgive me for selfishness and lack of vision. Give me a new boldness to share the Gospel with those who may oppose me. Fill me afresh with the Holy Spirit and confidence. Amen.
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