Quiet Fire Devotional Series | Transformation Checkpoint: Boldness in Witnessing

Boldness in Witnessing

"For whoever is ashamed of Me and of My words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when He comes in His glory..." — Luke 9:26 (ESV)

We naturally speak of what we cherish. A new experience, a captivating story, a beloved relationship—these easily flow into our conversations. But why, when the subject is Jesus, does our voice often falter, our courage wane? The air grows tense, our confidence shrinks, and the fear of rejection or misunderstanding overshadows our zeal.

Yet here is the stark and stirring truth: The Kingdom we belong to demands we proclaim our King. Our citizenship in Heaven carries the joyful duty of declaring openly the name that has redeemed us. To withhold Christ from our speech is to withhold hope from a world thirsty for it.

Consider the character of an earthly citizen who refuses to speak of their leader, or a servant who avoids mentioning the master they serve. What kind of loyalty is that? And if we remain silent about the One who redeemed our lives, we deny others the very source of life we've found.

Jesus Himself modeled this fearless authenticity. His conversations were filled with references to His Father (John 5:19). He openly confronted brokenness and pride with truth and compassion. His life was a constant testimony of grace, unashamedly bringing divine love into human struggles. He openly wept for those lost and courageously spoke the words that brought them life.

Then Jesus turned to His disciples—and now, through the echo of history, to us—and declared, "As the Father has sent Me, even so I am sending you" (John 20:21, ESV).

Pause for a moment of honest introspection: When was the last time you courageously spoke the name of Jesus outside your comfort zone? What fears hold you back? Is it fear of rejection, awkwardness, or judgment? If you boldly share so many lesser things, what prevents you from freely speaking His name?

Marks of a Transformed Witness:

• Am I weaving Jesus naturally into my daily interactions?

• Do I offer prayer as my first response rather than my last resort?

• Can I articulate the difference Christ has made in my life without embarrassment?

• Do I gently and genuinely explain the reason for my hope to those around me?

Scripture for Courageous Living: "In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." — 1 Peter 3:15 (ESV)

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes..." — Romans 1:16 (ESV)

Checkpoint Challenge: This week, speak the name of Jesus openly with someone outside your immediate circle—not out of duty, but from genuine love. Offer prayer where you normally might remain silent. Share how Jesus carried you through difficulty when someone around you expresses their pain or struggle.

Remember this truth when fear tries to silence your witness: He was not ashamed to speak your name from the cross. Now it's your turn to speak His boldly, lovingly, and without fear.