When we are encouraged with the gospel, we grow in confidence to share it and courage to live it.

Brave. Fearless. Courageous. Daring. Each of these words describes what it means to be bold. Anyone can take these words and use them as a battle cry in seasons of life. They can influence all we do.

But what does it mean to Be Bold? You might be thinking that was already answered, but not exactly. Not how we define it. To Be Bold, we deny ourselves for the greater mission of Christ (Matthew 16:24) and make that mission an everyday focus. Our boldness comes from the work of Jesus and continually growing to be more like Him. Being brave, fearless, courageous, or daring without Jesus serves our pride and not the mission He gave us. To serve others, these bold characteristics come from the Spirit we have been given to grow. We recognize our imperfections, we strive for excellence, and we bring glory to God.

Our words give truth and care.

James spoke about the words we use. He warns us of the destruction that can come from our mouths (James 1:26; 3:5-8). We have to consider what we want to say to those around us. Are we in the business of tearing down or of building up? When we speak truth, and speak it with care, we are giving a gift to who receives it. Challenging situations will arise and to Be Bold requires that we recognize all people as our neighbors that can be encouraged and built up. (Ephesians 4:29; 1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Our actions show we truly believe.

It’s been said that actions speak louder than words. Our words can inform others of who we say we are but our actions confirm or deny those words. Jesus reminded us of the detriment of our actions (Matthew 5:21-22) and up’d the stakes at the same time. If we are to Be Bold in our actions, modeling Jesus must be our first step. We won’t be perfect in all circumstances. We will fail at times. But the action after our mistake, or after our failure, will reveal the truth of who we are and truly worship.

Our heart gives evidence of Christ’s love.

Jesus wept (John 11:35). The shortest verse in the Bible shows Jesus’ humanity and heart. The King of kings, ruler of heaven and earth, cried. We know from scripture that God wants our heart and that He looks to the heart to see our intent. Our words and actions, as described above, are evidence of a heart changed by Jesus. Our desire to Be Bold with love comes from a heart that is ever changing to show love like Jesus.