Courage to Witness

Where does your boldness come from in sharing the good news with someone? Does it come from your way with words? Does it come from your ability to sound polished and smooth?

My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power. 1 Corinthians 2:4-5 NIV

You know you should share the Gospel. You were just about to say something. And then you held back. What happened to your courage? You hang your head, disappointed in the missed opportunity.

Where does your boldness come from in sharing the good news with someone? Does it come from your way with words? Does it come from your ability to sound polished and smooth?

The apostle Paul (who knew the gospel better than most people) did not rely on his smarts or eloquence in sharing with people. His courage came from somewhere else. He relied on a manifestation of the Spirit’s power to do the talking.

In fact Paul said of himself that he was weak and trembling in his presentation. He didn’t sound or look great. But he was able to see the power of God released in front of an unbelieving world.

When we rely on our own gifts of communication in witnessing, we are on shaky ground. Courage will be gained or leave us based on the response of our audience. It takes courage to rely on the power of God in evangelism. And it brings courage when God shows himself in power.

Don't short-change your witnessing experience by relying on your clever words. Take up courage and pray for the Spirit to show up in power. Ask if you can pray for the person. Wait on God. Then step out in faith. Courage will come as you step out. Now watch for God to show his power through prayer for healing, words of wisdom, miracles and more.