STEP OUT IN BOLDNESS

Jesus appoints us as “carriers of God’s kingdom”. I find it quite amazing that after his disciples spent quite a short time with Jesus, He sent them out in twos to basically do the works that He had been doing. How did they feel? Excited? Confident? Scared? His words as He sent them didn’t seem to be designed to calm their nerves. Jesus said, “Remember, I am sending you out as lambs among wolves”. So they probably felt much the same as we would and do – nervous, excited, hopeful, scared.

In Luke chapter 10, Jesus told them to speak and do what was humanly impossible – to heal the sick, believe for miraculous provision, proclaim peace on households and proclaim, “The Kingdom of God has come near to you”. I think that his disciples were surprised at the success they saw. When they returned they reported, “Lord, even demons obey us when we use your name!” There we see the weapon they had been given – the name of Jesus.

I am more and more challenged to step out in boldness to proclaim God’s kingdom and do His works. It’s not about being a super-Christian or being highly gifted. It’s not about me at all. It’s about Jesus. It’s about knowing that we have an all-powerful God who chose us to be His ambassadors, His carriers of the Kingdom. Jesus’ disciples weren’t superheroes and neither are we. We are just like clay pots but God puts His treasure, His Holy Spirit, in us. So I’m deciding to believe what God says, to step out, to proclaim His words boldly and do His works. Yes, I am nervous and scared inside but I’m going to do it anyway.

Who is with me?

Tim Mitchell