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Intention

To stand firm fearlessly in Christ and be unashamed of God’s Word.

Scripture

“At my first defence, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them.”

“But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it.”

“And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

– 2 Timothy 4:16–18

Reflection

We live in a day when it is increasingly costly to bear witness to Jesus. Just like in the time of Daniel, the government is putting into legislation who we can and cannot pray for.

This is a time to have the courage of someone like John the Baptist, who challenged King Herod about the immorality of his marriage (Mark 6:14ff). That is, to lovingly challenge people about their sin so that they might turn to the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved.

All of this takes much wisdom. Faithfully presenting the gospel message requires that we include the twin truths of repentance and faith (Mark 1:15). But this will bring us into conflict with the world (see John 15:18–19). What this means in practice then, is two things.

First, we shouldn’t be surprised if not every brother and sister will be prepared to stand next to us in the heat of battle. The disciples deserted Jesus in his hour of need. Everyone also deserted Paul in his time of need (2 Tim 4:16).

Second, the LORD is still faithful. He literally rescued Daniel from the lion’s mouth, and He also rescued the apostle Paul from the opponents he faced. Sometimes His intention is for us to bear witness to Him even unto death. Regardless of what happens, it’s important to know that nothing occurs to us outside His sovereign will (see Matt 10:29–30).

So, stand firm my brother or sister in Christ, and do not be ashamed of God’s Word! The LORD is mighty to save and therefore we have nothing to fear. For we not only rest secure in the Saviour’s hands, but He delights in using our witness and suffering to bring glory to Himself.

Video

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, we praise and adore You for You are light. In You, there is no darkness at all.

Grant us grace to boldly proclaim the good news about Jesus – the message of His victory over death and perfect atonement for our sins.

May we be found worthy of suffering for Your Name. May You grant us the integrity to stand beside other brothers and sisters who bear witness to You as well. Amen.

Author Bio

Mark is the pastor at Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, Hobart. He and his wife have six children. Mark is a passionate advocate for faith, family, freedom and life. He is a gifted communicator and has made various appearances on radio and TV. He contributes to numerous online publications including The Spectator Australia, where his articles often appear in the most popular list.

Prayer Points and Purpose for GO Month 2024

1. To worship Jesus and give extravagant praise to God. 1 Chron 16:23–31.
2. To pray for revival, repentance and deliverance for Australia and for millions to find Christ. Acts 2:1–41.
3. To pray for five people by name to find Christ and share the gospel with those five in May. Matt 28:18–20.

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