August 30

Read: Acts 4:31, 33

They were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness (Acts 4:31).

Courage To Witness

What may I expect the Holy Spirit to do for me when I am afraid to witness for Jesus? What is God’s will for me at this point? The Bible replies: “God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord” (II Timothy 1:7-8).

On the eve of the Crucifixion, Peter was so fearful that he denied his Lord. In Gethsemane, John was among those who “forsook him, and fled.” But only a few weeks later, those who heard the preaching of these men marveled “when they saw the boldness of Peter and John” (Acts 4:13). What had happened to them? Luke answers the question: “Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them…” (4:8). It was after this sermon that Peter and John were threatened by the rulers and specifically warned to testify no more. But they, with others, went to prayer. “And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.”

If we are not sanctified and lack courage to speak for Christ, we may expect the baptism with the Holy Ghost to give us greater boldness. If we have been sanctified wholly and still feel timid about witnessing, the Holy Spirit will give us courage in answer to our specific prayer.

Oh, use me, Lord, use even me Just as Thou wilt, and when, and where,

Until Thy blessed face I see, Thy rest, Thy joy, Thy glory share! — The Salvation Army Tune Book