Week Five – Day 5
TODAY’S FAST – Daniel Fast (Fruits, vegetables, nuts and water only)
Devotional:
I find Matthew 10 a pretty unsettling passage of Scripture. Consider how Jesus describes our calling to share the Gospel…I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves (v. 16)…Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you (v. 17)…you will be dragged before governors and kings (v. 18). That’s not real encouraging news, is it? In fact, it can be downright frightening. And then, in the midst of these dire predictions, Jesus says, “Don’t worry!” (v. 19).
Don’t worry! Are you kidding me? Don’t worry! Why would Jesus say that?
The answer is found in two great promises of the Bible. The first is the #1 most-often-repeated promise in the Word of God. It’s God’s promise to never leave us or forsake us. In other words, He is with us through all things. God walks through every bit of trouble with us and as He does, He brings strength, comfort and courage…even joy! The second great promise is in verses 19-20. God says that when you witness for Him, do not be anxious because His Holy Spirit will guide you and give you the exact words to say.
Prayer focus:
As you fast and pray for boldness this week, be encouraged. God is walking with you and is already preparing your heart and mind for exactly what you will say. Just open your mouth and let Him speak! Pray that God will give you the right words to say at the right time to the right people.
Key Scripture:
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues. On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Matthew 10:16-20 NIV
