Be Bold

Today one of my co-workers was mocking me about being a christian. I didn't see it as a negative thing, I actually felt happy. It makes me feel like I'm doing something right. But in the midst of his mocking he challenged me. He started going on about how people have died in the name of religion, and it seemed he was trying to frighten me. I told him that I would willingly give my life in the name of Christ. Notice I did not say Christianity, for religion is not what I want to die for, but for Christ himself. He didn't say a word to me about it after that.
As I was driving home I couldn't help but think about what transpired in that moment. Not only did I represent Christ in a loving way, but I accomplished something I have never done before. I stood up in the face of intimidation. I can only give credit to the Holy Spirit, for I have a shy and avoiding personality.
It really got me thinking about how we as Christians tell each other to be bold, and stand for Christ. And I understand what that means just a little better I think. I did not start preaching, I did not get defensive. I simply smiled and stated exactly where I stand with my relationship with Christ, that I would give my life in His name.
We as Christians need to be bold, but need to understand the limits of our situation. If I had said anything else, he would have completely disregarded me and what I had to say. I know this because it's not the first time we've had discussions regarding this matter. But some situations call for us to preach, some call for us to simply be examples, and sometimes we are required to give a little push, and challenge the people who need to be challenged. The Spirit inside of us knows what the situation calls for, just let Him guide you in your boldness.
In conclusion, we can not be scared to state where we stand in our faith. We can't let the world intimidate us into silent submission. If someone threatens your life because you love Christ, is that not the highest honor we can achieve in this world? We have nothing to fear, for Heaven is our reward for being bold for Christ. Death can not taint that gift to us. So I encourage anyone who claims Christ in church, and around Christian friends, to claim Him everywhere else even more! He went through more pain then we will ever know, so how about taking a little pain for Him.
I want to especially acknowledge my sisters in this message. Girls you are in a time of your life that loving Christ will only get harder. Junior high is a tough place, a lot of kids will tease you and laugh at you, maybe even show anger toward you for loving Christ. I hope and pray that as you go through the rest of your school years, and the rest of your life, that you strive to be bold for Christ, and stand up for what you know is right. Not using bad words, loving others enough to help them when they ask, or simply when they look like they are struggling. Christ is the only thing we should be focused on, and when He is, boldness will become second nature. I love you both! And you are in my prayers that God will instruct you and use you in your generation.