Glossophobia, or a fear of public speaking, is a widespread phobia and is believed to affect 75% of the population. Some individuals may feel a slight nervousness at the very thought of public speaking, while others experience full-on panic and fear. Now elevate this task to speaking out for Jesus and the Gospel of the Kingdom. The Gospel of the Kingdom is the most important news to be shared, yet it’s easy not to share in fear of what others might say, think, or do.
“We will never change the world by going to church. We will only change the world by being the church.” ~ Unknown
In our scripture readings for today, in the Gospel of Matthew, we find an incredible promise from Jesus that should help all of us when we are sharing the best news ever. Jesus warns us that we will encounter many in opposition to hearing the Gospel of the Kingdom. Some will try to silence us with their influence and possibly even try to harm us somehow. But when confronted by such people, we must know that the Holy Spirit has our back.
19 Whenever they hand you over, don’t worry about how to speak or what you will say, because what you can say will be given to you at that moment. 20 You aren’t doing the talking, but the Spirit of my Father is doing the talking through you (Matthew 10:19-20).
“You have never truly found Jesus if you do not tell others about Him.” ~ Charles H. Spurgeon
As kingdom people, we are called to share the good news and make disciples, who make disciples, who make more disciples for the transformation of the world. The transformation process is carried out by kingdom people helping usher in God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. Don’t miss your chance to share the Gospel of the Kingdom. Choose to live out this purpose statement for the kingdom, “Kingdom People Helping People Find and Follow Jesus.”
Scripture Readings
Reflection Questions
- What did you take from today’s reflection and scripture readings?
- How afraid are you of public speaking?
- How afraid are you of sharing the Gospel of the Kingdom with others?
- In what ways do you praise God in your life?
- Do you fear the chastening of the Lord?
- Have you surrendered to the position of poverty from within yourself? It’s necessary to be in the kingdom with Jesus.
Prayer
(prayer source Emily Hall, Salem Web Network)
A Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Holy Spirit,
You are God. I praise you because you are holy, and I thank you for dwelling in my heart. Thank you for working in my life. You guided me into salvation, renewed my dead spirit, and you opened my eyes to the Truth. Thank you.
Help me to see you more clearly – to recognize your movement in my life. Make me more sensitive to you so I can follow you more closely. Still, I know that I am selfish and rebellious. Please help me be obedient when I recognize your leadership. I need you.
I ask you for your help and comfort today. You know my pain and anxieties very well. Thank you for praying over me. Could you help me to rest in your comfort today?
Help me to walk in you, the Spirit of God. Grow good fruit in my life. You are the one who produces these in me: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. I cannot live out these things on my own; I need you.
Amen
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