Speaking the Gospel Without Fear
Philippians 1:14 and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.
Story: Personally, prison is something I want to avoid. Paul probably wasn’t thrilled with being imprisoned either; no more traveling and preaching and planting the Gospel; placed in a situation for easy abuse and/or a death sentence; even 3 square meals was not a given for Paul. And yet he rejoices in the Lord while in prison because the Gospel has been advancing (v. 12). One of these ways is that other Christians have less fear of speaking the Gospel to others. No longer are they afraid of being arrested or punished because of Paul’s example. I’m still not volunteering for a prison trip, but I can see how God can and does use all things for good.
My Prayer Response: Father, we rejoice in Christ being proclaimed – not just in freedom and comfort, but also in opposition and persecution. You are worthy of the risk; the salvation of others is worth the risk. Not only replaces our fears in sharing the Gospel with faith in You, but also replace that fear with joy! Increase our trust in the Lord.
May you be more bold to speak the Gospel without fear!