Bold, steadfast, powerful, and purposeful – that’s how Christians are called by our almighty heavenly Father to live our earthly inhabitance. Unfortunately, too often, we exist as timid, inconstant, weak, and indecisive spectators in the arena of life.
Proverbs 28:1 says, “The wicked flee when no man pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.” In 1 Corinthians 15:58, God speaks to us through his servant Paul saying, “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”
Even in adversity – or should I say especially during those times of trials and tribulations – we are to exhibit these characteristics. In James 1:2-4, we are encouraged to “count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect, complete, lacking in nothing.” James continues in verse 12 saying, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God promises to those who love him.”
The Bible is filled with stories of men and women who were bold, steadfast, powerful, and purposeful servants, but if you pay attention, those characteristics were developed through the love, patience, forgiveness, and strength of God. Those servants often started as timid, inconstant, weak, and indecisive souls needing the molding touch of a transformative potter.
What do I mean? Think about it. David – said to be a man after God’s own heart – was an adulterer who arranged the death of the man married to the beauty who captivated his lustful desires. Noah, a drunkard, built the ark that preserved not only mankind but also the animals of the fields and sky. Peter, who denied Christ three times, was later crucified for his bold testimony and witness for Christ.
Prostitutes, tax-collectors, murderers, daydreams, and liars – God touched and used them all. The young, the old, the fearful, and a woman thrice divorced – our Creator used them as well. Paul was too religious while Zacchaeus was too small. Jonah ran from God but could not outpace the pursuit of Abba – our loving Daddy. Gideon was afraid but was made bold. Then there was Lazarus – he was dead, but God revived even him.
That same loving God who changed David, Noah, Peter, Paul, Zacchaeus, and countless others desires as much from you, no matter where you are at this very moment. He wants to touch your heart, revive your life, and lift your soul so that you, too, may become a bold, steadfast, powerful, and purposeful witness among His people.
It is my fervent prayer that the words contained on this website bring about a deeper more meaningful relationship with God, one where you find unending joy and meaning through a more consistent walk with the Master, one where your good works lead others to glorify Him.
If you like and are blessed by the content created by Outrider Ministries for Christ, we encourage you to regularly visit our website while also telling your family and friends about us. Never forget – you are important to us and vital to our success at spreading the word of God and the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all the world. May His abounding love, mercy, and grace be upon you.