In what ways can we rely on God for courage in challenging situations? Living Courageously in a Hostile World Acts 4:29: “And now, Lord, consider their threats and enable Your servants to speak Your word with complete boldness.” The early believers didn’t pray for easier circumstances; they prayed for divine courage. They recognized God as the source of strength, not their own resolve. Their model shows us where to aim our dependence when we face intimidation, pressure, or ridicule for our faith. How God Supplies Courage • Sovereign Oversight ▸ Acts 4:24 reminds us He is “Lord of heaven and earth.” When we know He rules over every authority, our fears shrink (cf. Psalm 46:1–2). • Spirit-Empowered Boldness ▸ Acts 4:31: “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” ▸ 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • Scriptural Promises ▸ Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous… for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” ▸ Psalm 27:1: “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” • Christ’s Presence ▸ Matthew 28:20: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” The risen Christ stands beside us in every courtroom, classroom, or kitchen table conversation. • Answered Prayer ▸ The believers asked, and God immediately shook the place (Acts 4:31). He still responds when we seek courage aligned with His mission. Practical Ways to Rely on Him Today • Start with Worship ▸ Like the early church, focus on God’s greatness before presenting your needs. • Pray Specifically for Boldness ▸ Name the intimidating situation and ask Him to “enable Your servant” to act or speak. • Immerse Yourself in Scripture ▸ Fear fades when our minds are filled with His unbreakable promises. • Remember Past Deliverances ▸ Rehearse moments God has already carried you through; faith grows by remembering. • Step Out in Obedience ▸ Courage often arrives in motion—take the first step, trusting He’ll empower the next (cf. James 1:22). • Lean on Fellowship ▸ The believers prayed “together” (Acts 4:24). Share burdens and victories with trusted brothers and sisters. The Result of God-Given Courage • Unhindered Witness ▸ Acts 4:33: “With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.” • Strengthened Church Unity ▸ Fear isolates; bold faith knits hearts together (Acts 4:32). • Glory to God, Not Self ▸ Outsiders recognized the courage “of unschooled, ordinary men” and “took note that these men had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13). Takeaway When threats loom, rely on the sovereign God who fills His people with the Holy Spirit, grounds them in His Word, and answers their petitions for boldness. Step forward, confident that the same Lord who emboldened Peter and John stands ready to fortify you today. |
    |