Daily devotion – don’t hold it back
In Mark 16:15, Jesus gives His followers a profound and impactful command: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” This directive from Jesus encapsulates the heart of the Christian mission – to share the good news of salvation with everyone, regardless of background or circumstance.
At Calvary Chapel Secret Harbour, this mission is symbolized by the surfboard hanging over the doorway – a visible reminder of our calling to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ to the world. Yet, despite this clear mandate, we often find ourselves hesitating, fearing rejection, or being paralyzed by various obstacles that keep us from sharing the life-changing message of the gospel.
What holds us back from boldly sharing the good news? The fear of man can be a powerful snare, keeping us silent and preventing us from fulfilling our calling. But the truth is that we have a message that is more wonderful than any personal achievement or joyous event – the message of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, His forgiveness, and His transforming love.
Pro 29:25 The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.
Consider the fervor with which we share other significant events in our lives. When we get engaged, expect a child, or experience other milestones, we eagerly share the news with anyone who will listen. Shouldn’t our enthusiasm for the gospel, which offers eternal hope and redemption, be even greater?
The apostle Paul serves as a compelling example of this uncontainable zeal. He couldn’t help but proclaim the grace and mercy he had received through Christ, even though he had once been a blasphemer and persecutor. Paul’s transformation was a testament to the power of the gospel, and he passionately shared it with others, believing that Christ came into the world to save sinners – himself included.
1 Timothy 1: 12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, 13 although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 15 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. 16 However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
It’s time for us to shake off any hesitation, silence the voice of fear, and boldly declare the good news of Jesus Christ. The gospel is the power of God unto salvation, and it has the potential to transform lives, bringing hope and everlasting life. Let us echo the apostle Paul’s sentiment: “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ.”
Let us recognize the urgency of our mission, casting aside any shame or fear, and bringing the message of salvation to a world that desperately needs it.
This week, let’s take up the challenge to share the gospel with someone – a family member, a friend, a coworker, or even a stranger. Let us embrace the joyful responsibility of proclaiming the good news and watch as lives are changed by the transformative power of Jesus Christ.