Today's Scripture:
Acts 4:1-31

Key Verse:
Acts 4:31

"And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness."

The Point:

A Thriving Heart is Bold - Demonstrating Courage to speak the Truth

When God revives the heart, fear loses its grip. (2 Timothy 1:7) Boldness is not arrogance or self-confidence, but confidence in God's presence and truth. (Proverbs 28:1) A bold heart obeys even when the world resists, prays with faith, speaks with love, and stands firm when compromise would be easier. Holy boldness flows from walking closely with Christ, knowing that our strength comes not from ourselves, but from Him.

2 Timothy 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

Proverbs 28:1 "The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.."

Illustration: Peter and John before the Council (Acts 4:1-31)

After healing a lame man at the temple gate, Peter and John were arrested and brought before the same leaders who had condemned Jesus. Fear could have silenced them, but instead, they spoke with courage and those in authority were speechless! Acts 4:13 records: "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus." The boldness of Peter and John was not reckless. Their boldness flowed from knowing the risen Christ was with them. They declared, "We cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard." (Acts 4:20)

The result? The gospel advanced, the church grew, and God was glorified. Their example reminds us that holy courage is rooted not in ourselves, but in Christ’s power and presence.

Study Today's Scripture (Acts 4:1-31). Consider the example set by Peter and John and answer these Reflection Questions:

1. Has God through His Holy Spirit prompted you to speak to a family member, friend, co-worker, or neighbor about Jesus and you gave in to fear by wondering, "What would they think" or "Will they listen?"
2. When you think about courage, do you usually rely more on your own confidence or on God's presence and promises?
3. How does knowing "God is with me" change the way you face challenges?
4. What fears most often hold you back from speaking truth or living faithfully?
5. Where is God asking you to stand firm in obedience, even if compromise would be easier?
6. How can you show boldness while remaining gentle in spirit?