How can we courageously stand for truth when facing opposition in our lives? Jeremiah 26:24—A Snapshot of Bold Faith “Nevertheless, Ahikam son of Shaphan supported Jeremiah, so he was not handed over to the people to be put to death.” (Jeremiah 26:24) • Jeremiah has just delivered a fiery call to repentance that enrages the leaders in Jerusalem. • A mob wants him executed; the pressure is intense. • Ahikam steps in, risking his own status to shield God’s prophet. • Because one man stands firm, the message of truth survives that day—and so does Jeremiah. What Courage Looks Like in This Scene • Conviction: Jeremiah speaks exactly what God says, regardless of fallout. • Advocacy: Ahikam uses his influence to protect the messenger of truth. • Cost-acceptance: Both men know the danger yet act anyway. • God-reliance: Their security rests in the Lord, not in public opinion. Connecting the Dots—Other Voices of Courage in Scripture • Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—“Even if He does not, … we will not serve your gods.” (Daniel 3:17-18) • Peter and John—“We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:19-20) • Paul—“Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. … Be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13) • Jesus—“Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” (Matthew 10:28) Key Principles for Us Today • Truth is non-negotiable—We are custodians of God’s unchanging Word. • Opposition is inevitable—Expect it; don’t be paralyzed by it (2 Timothy 3:12). • Courage is contagious—Ahikam’s boldness secures Jeremiah’s life and message. • God honors faithfulness—He preserved Jeremiah to continue prophesying for decades. Putting Courage into Practice 1. Fill your heart with Scripture daily—truth fuels bravery (Romans 10:17). 2. Pray for Spirit-empowered boldness (Acts 4:31). 3. Surround yourself with fellow “Ahikams” who will stand with you. 4. Speak graciously yet plainly—clarity minus hostility (Ephesians 4:15). 5. Accept potential loss—reputation, comfort, even livelihood—knowing Christ is worth it (Philippians 1:29). 6. Keep eternal perspective—what matters most lasts longest (Colossians 3:1-2). Promises That Anchor Our Resolve • “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) • “The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.” (Proverbs 29:25) • “Therefore take up the full armor of God … to stand your ground.” (Ephesians 6:13) • “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31) Stand where God places you, speak the truth He entrusts to you, and trust the One who holds both you and the outcome in His sovereign hands. |
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