Overcoming Fear: Answering God's Call to Share His Word
We often make excuses for things we don't want to do, from household chores to homework. But what happens when God calls us to share His word? Many of us would rather have our wisdom teeth pulled than speak about our faith to someone who doesn't know Jesus.
First, let’s examine the Power of God's Word
Looking at the story of Nehemiah 8 that we read on Sunday, we see how the mere reading of God's Word brought people to their faces in worship. Remember the context: This event happened after 70 years of being in exile, and as the walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt. Ezra the priest read from the book of the Law (God’s Word) to rebuild their faith and true identity as God's people. The response was profound - people wept and worshiped. I mentioned on Sunday how profound this is—even considering those in Western NC who are desperate for Bibles after the devastating hurricane. So first of all… How do we need to build or rebuild OUR life around the Word of God so that WE can then share our faith (knowing OUR true identity in Christ?!?)
Why Are We Afraid to Share Our Faith?
In our modern culture, we tend to stay in our comfort zones, living behind privacy fences rather than engaging in meaningful community. We often think evangelism is someone else's responsibility, not ours. Or we find ourselves just TOO busy to spend the time necessary to forge relationships and share our faith story. This stands in stark contrast to the early church, where ordinary people were empowered by the Holy Spirit to proclaim God's message with urgency and confidence!
How Do We Gain Confidence to Share?
Jesus promises in Luke 12:12 that we shouldn't fear what to say because the Holy Spirit will give us the words. We’ve GOT to believe this!! Just as Jesus spoke with boldness and authority through the power of the Spirit, we too are clothed with this same authority through our baptism and confirmation.
Practical Steps to Build Confidence:
Make attending worship a priority where you hear the Word of God proclaimed.
Devote yourself to learning God's Word in private AND in community (LifeGroups, for instance).
Remember you have the Holy Spirit's power!
Start with sharing your personal story! Everyone should listen to your story if it’s shared with authenticity and humility! Remember, you DON’T have to have all the answers to life’s deepest mysteries! Just share what Jesus has done for you.
Be intentional about creating space and opportunities to share (remember what I said about the man in Bojangles with me).
Remember— Your Story Matters
Everyone who has come to Christ has a story worth sharing. Whether you've had a dramatic conversion or grown up in the church, your authentic testimony, when anointed by the Holy Spirit, can impact others. The disciples started by simply sharing their stories one person at a time, and look how far the Gospel has spread!
Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to:
Identify one person in your life who needs to hear about Jesus
Ask God for an opportunity to share your faith story
Take one step outside your comfort zone in sharing your faith
Ask yourself:
What excuses am I making that prevent me from sharing God's Word?
Where is God calling me to be more intentional about sharing my faith?
How can I better prepare myself to share the Gospel with others?
Remember, we don't need to feel pressure about results - it's God who changes hearts. Our role is simply to be willing vessels, sharing His message of freedom and hope with those around us. The world needs a fearless church, and that starts with each of us choosing to overcome our fears and answer God's call to share His Word.
I love you all,
Travis +