Today’s thoughts by Deborah Ard.

Acts 13:46 NIV —Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles.

Acts 14:3 NIV — So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders.

This week I am sharing thoughts about Paul from the Bible. It’s at this point that Saul begins going by the Gentile (non-Jewish) version of his name — Paul. He does this so that he will be more relatable and to ensure that his name doesn’t become a stumbling block. After all, Saul was known as a prosecutor of believers. 

I selected today’s featured scriptures because of the manner in which Paul and Barnabas spoke to the Gentiles. They spoke boldly. To speak boldly is to speak in a confident and courageous way; showing a willingness to take risks. 

I am amazed and inspired by Paul’s courage to speak boldly about Christ after so boldly being a prosecutor of Christ followers. I wonder if he was afraid that others would deem him unworthy? Would he be perceived as untrustworthy? However, today’s scripture confirms that he spoke boldly about Christ and by doing so he furthered the spread of the church. He is a true example of the fruit of the spirit. Paul inspires me to strive for boldness in my Christian walk. How can you be bold for Christ today?

If you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your savior, I encourage you to visit our Steps To Peace page to learn how you can trust God with your life. If you would like more information or support, please email us at waterwalkers29@gmail.com.

Let’s pray. Dear God, give me courage to speak boldly and take risks for You. As scripture says in Psalms 19, may the words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

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