Unshakable Faith: Relying on God Amid Opposition
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 17 2025 | Acts 4:23-31
KEY VERSE: Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Acts 4:29 (NIV)
MESSAGE: After facing threats from the authorities, the early believers didn’t pray for safety or an escape from danger; they prayed for boldness to continue their mission. Their unshakable faith was rooted in the sovereignty of God and the power of the Holy Spirit. They knew that their obedience to God outweighed any fear of man.
We can feel tempted to shrink back or stay silent when we face opposition—criticism, rejection, or even hostility. But like the early church, we must remember that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness. Opposition is not a signal to retreat; it’s an opportunity to lean into God’s strength and let His light shine through us.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Be inspired by the verse to pray for boldness when you feel overwhelmed.
PRAYER:
Lord, in the face of challenges, strengthen my faith. Help me rely on Your power to fulfil Your purpose, no matter the cost.” In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 48: Exodus 21-22 — Laws About Justice and Mercy
DAILY word study: BOLDNESS The word "boldness" in Acts 4:29 comes from the Greek "παρρησία" (parrēsia), meaning "freedom in speaking, confidence, or fearless assurance." It is often used in the New Testament to describe the courage given by the Holy Spirit to proclaim God’s truth without hesitation. In Acts 4:29, the disciples did not pray for their enemies to be removed but for boldness to speak despite opposition. The use of parrēsia signifies Spirit-empowered confidence rather than human bravery. It represents a God-given freedom to declare the gospel, undeterred by fear or threats. This same boldness was evident in Peter and John, who, despite being ordinary men, amazed the religious leaders with their fearless proclamation of Christ (Acts 4:13). Reflection:
Spiritual boldness is not about being loud or confrontational but about having unshakable confidence in God’s truth. Do you pray for boldness to share your faith? True boldness comes when we rely on the Holy Spirit rather than our own strength.
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