Emboldened

"Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say."  
Acts 2:14 (NIV) 

Remember that disciple who denied knowing Jesus three times? What transformed that fearful follower into the bold preacher who stood before thousands at Pentecost?  

The same power that now lives in you. 

When the Holy Spirit arrived, everything changed. Peter—the man who once cowered before a servant girl—now boldly declared to the very people who orchestrated Jesus's crucifixion: "God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah" (Acts 2:36).  

This wasn't Peter's natural courage on display. This was supernatural boldness that could only come from the Spirit's presence. The same Peter who once struggled to understand Jesus's basic teachings now masterfully connected Old Testament prophecies to Christ's fulfillment of them. 

Here's the amazing truth: that same Holy Spirit power lives in you today.  

You don't need extraordinary gifts or theological training to speak truth. The Spirit who emboldened Peter is ready to empower your conversations this week. 

What would happen if you allowed the Holy Spirit to flavor your everyday interactions with mentions of Jesus? You don’t need a memorized presentation. Simply share some of the ways God is working in your life.  

 This week, ask the Spirit to give you one opportunity to speak of Jesus—then watch what happens when His courage meets your willingness. 

Prayer: Father, thank You for placing Your Holy Spirit within me. Thank You that I don't need to rely on my own courage or cleverness to speak of Jesus. Fill me with supernatural boldness to naturally share the hope I have. Open doors for gospel conversations this week, and help me walk through them with confidence. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.