Bold as a Lion

Bold as a Lion

Scripture Reading: Acts 4:1–31; 2 Timothy 1:7–8

Key Verse: “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.” — Acts 4:13

Peter and John were ordinary fishermen with no formal training, standing in front of the most powerful religious leaders in Jerusalem. They had been threatened and ordered to stop speaking in the name of Jesus. Their boldness didn’t come from education or status. The leaders could see the source: “they had been with Jesus.”

What they did next is worth noticing. They didn’t pray for the threats to go away. They prayed for more courage: “And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word” (Acts 4:29). God answered right away. “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” (Acts 4:31).

Biblical boldness isn’t loudness, arrogance, or harshness. It’s Spirit-given courage to live and speak for Christ when it’s uncomfortable. “The righteous are bold as a lion” (Proverbs 28:1), and “God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). The secret is the same as it was for Peter and John: spend time with Jesus, and courage follows.

Reflect: Where does fear keep you quiet about your faith? Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus from you?

Life Application: Pray the prayer of Acts 4:29 by name today: “Lord, grant me boldness to speak Your word.” Then look for one God-given opportunity this week to share your faith, invite someone to church, or stand up for what’s right, and take it.

Prayer: Lord, I confess the times fear has kept me silent. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and give me boldness to speak Your Word. Let people see in me that I have been with Jesus. In His mighty name, Amen.