Living Bold for Christ

This morning as I was walking and praying there were 2 adolescents under the playground equipment in the park. So young, they looked like boys more than men. I walked over and asked them if they needed any help. With lighters in hand, they could just be meeting for a smoke or buying drugs or homeless.

As I talked with them more and learned their names my heart was filled with compassion. These young men have made foolish choices. I don’t know all the pain they experienced in their short lives. But my heart beat for them. I don’t want the potential that God has placed in their lives to be lit up with smoke.

I leaned in and asked if I could pray for them. One of the men flashed me a smile that lit up his face and said yes. I prayed,

“Jesus, thank you for these young men.

While they were yet in their mothers’ wombs, you knew them.

You fashioned them with your own hands.

You gave each of them a destiny that only they can fulfill.

Jesus, they have lost their way.

They have made foolish choices.

I pray that you would light their path.

Help them find their way home to you.

Surround them with divine appointments and protection.

I pray this in Jesus name. Amen.”

As I walked away, wanting to do more, but sensing that their hearts were not open to more, I continued to pray for them.

As I reflect back, I am challenged by our beautiful, pristine middle class neighborhoods that I presently am called to live in. The beautiful homes become shells that hide the desperate challenges that men, women, and children face every day.

Here I am as a woman with so much. I am desperately in love with Jesus, and he has not only saved me, He has healed me a delivered me. Every day, His word instructs me on how to live and what choices to make.  The thing that I have that can make the difference for Michael and Kyle and so many others is the gospel of Jesus Christ.

“For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ.

It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes…”

Romans 1:16 NLT

Living Bold for Christ is not based on Personality

The boldness that we walk in every day is not based on our personality. It’s source flows from the saving power of Jesus Christ.  Jesus is both bold as a lion and gentle as a lamb. Our boldness is walked out in the gentleness of letting the Holy Spirit inform how we are to minister to people that we encounter every day. God will use your unique personality to change people’s lives as you point them to Jesus.

Living Bold for Christ Releases Destiny

The destiny that is released when you live out your daily calling is not only your destiny, but the destiny of those who are trapped. Jesus came that none would perish and all would have an opportunity to know Him intimately. He came to destroy the works of the enemy in peoples’ lives. You hold in your hands the key of eternal life that unlocks destiny.

Living Bold for Christ is a Daily Choice

You and I have a choice every day if we will follow the Lord’s leading and prompting. There is enough time in the day to do all that God is calling you and I to do. Most of all, the gift is already in you. If you have received Christ as your Lord and savior, just share that gift with others in every smile that crosses your face, and every word that comes out of your mouth.

Sue Detweiler

SUE DETWEILER is the mother of six, author, speaker, and radio host with over 25 years experience in leadership, ministry, and education. Her book 9 Traits of a Life-Giving Mom is available online and in book stores near you.