- fbchurch01
Bold Faith: Part 2
Stepping out boldly in our faith isn’t easy. As a matter of fact, it can be one of the most difficult parts of being a follower of Christ.
Last Sunday, Pastor Jason reminded us that bold faith is about moving in the direction of others so they can experience freedom in Jesus. Being bold in our faith is required if we plan to reach a world in need.
In fact, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. (2 Timothy 3:12)
However, as Moses’ exchange with Pharoah shows, stepping out in boldness won’t always be an easy task. Pharaoh hardened his heart 12 times against the Israelites — resulting in God sending nine plagues.
Like Moses, we will face our fair share of hard-hearted people.
Calloused Hearts
Pharaoh's heart was hard. The bible reminds us that his heart was hardened against the Israelites 12 times. However, if we step back and observe our own hearts, we’d notice that our hearts may be hard too.
The hardness of our hearts is reflected in our actions and the words we say. Statements like,
● I don’t have time for this.
● This is just ridiculous.
● My life just stinks.
Instead, we should approach the throne humbly, asking, “Okay God, I am ready to listen. Are you trying to tell me something?”
When we harden our hearts, pride will soon take over. Pharoah’s unwillingness to humble himself and let the Israelites go resulted in the death of his firstborn son.
Ultimately, pride is the root of a calloused heart.
The Me Problem
Pride does not deliver us, it cripples us! It will hinder us from submitting to the warning signs of God because all we are thinking about is me, me, me.
2. Copycat Religion (Exodus 7:14)
With over 4,000 religions in the world — it’s so easy to become confused. Satan uses these religions to confuse us and keep people from God. We find that pride comes into play again because these false religions are built around human achievements and accomplishments.
Our bold faith when we encounter others is what will make a world of difference, and hopefully, what will make an eternal impact.
Acts 16:24-32
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the jail were shaken, and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s chains came loose. When the jailer woke up and saw the doors of the prison standing open, he drew his sword and was going to kill himself, since he thought the prisoners had escaped.
But Paul called out in a loud voice, “Don’t harm yourself, because we’re all here!”
The jailer called for lights, rushed in, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 He escorted them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
They said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him along with everyone in his house.
Paul and Silas didn’t let their situation interrupt their faith or praise. Several souls were saved as a result of their bold faith.
Your bold faith can open the door for God to work boldly — just as he did for this jailer and his family.
There’s no limit to what God can do when we trust him and act boldly.