Boldness

Throughout his years of ministry, Paul had realized that some words had little or no impact, while others were powerful…and he knew that prayer could make the difference!

Paul wanted to be sure he spoke in the most effective way—with words that were anointed by the Spirit and clearly understood. He wanted to speak with great conviction and boldness.

Knowing that he needed boldness, Paul asked the Ephesians to pray with him and for him, that he would speak the right words and deliver these words in the right spirit, with maximum impact. He desired to open his mouth “boldly,” that he would “speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”

The Greek word translated “boldly” means speaking with freedom, being confident and fearless. All of us need this kind of boldness in our testimony and our work for the Lord.

But we only can have this boldness when we are absolutely sure of our relationship with God, filled with His Spirit, and letting Him guide and direct us. Others can sense when we aren’t prepared or if we have doubt in our hearts. Our sin or uncertainty can block the flow of the Spirit and the work of God.

Today, ask the Lord to help you to be free from sin and anything that displeases Him. Ask Him to deliver you from doubt and give you absolute confidence and freedom in the Holy Spirit.

Remember: You can be certain that His Word is true. Then you can speak and live with boldness!