Stand for Truth, Bold as a Lion
Are you intimidated to stand for truth in this world? Fearful of the opposition you may face? You are not alone, my friend. Let’s turn to the Bible for reassurance to stand in spite of fear.
Proverbs 28:1b proclaims, “the righteous are as bold as a lion” (CSB).
Why We Can Stand
The word “bold” in Hebrew means “confident, secure, sure”.
As a believer in Jesus Christ, God is for you not against you. You are secure in Him, for no one can snatch you out of His hand and nothing can separate you from His love (John 10:28, Romans 8:38-39).) Plus, He is always with you through the presence of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17). This is why we can boldly stand with confidence.
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us fearful, but gives us power, love, and sound judgment” (2 Timothy 1:7).
When we remember who God is and that He is with us, we can refuse to succumb to fear and boldly stand for truth through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Why We Face Opposition
Even though we live in this world, we do not belong to the world (John 15:19). Because we follow God’s ways and not the world’s, we will face opposition. For the people of this world have been deceived by the enemy in thinking God’s ways are foolish (I Corinthians 1:18-21).
Since the enemy doesn’t want us standing for truth, he will do all he can to discourage us, intimidate us and silence us. But I John 4:4b proclaims, “the one who is in you [the Spirit] is greater than the one who is in the world [the devil].”
So don’t be surprised whenever you face opposition. Expect it. But, remember friend, you have God Almighty by your side.
How the Disciples Demonstrate Boldness
Let’s look at an example of the disciples’ boldness amid opposition.
In Acts 4:1-20, we read of their imprisonment for testifying about Jesus. Upon their release, the disciples refused to stop testifying and even declared their loyalty to God over man. Not only that, but they prayed for even more boldness (Acts 4:29).
From this example, we see the disciples chose to boldly continue proclaiming the truth in spite of threats and imprisonment. Obeying God and standing up for Him were more important to them than anything else.
Although we may not face imprisonment, perhaps we will encounter ridicule and rejection. When we do, may our love for the Lord compel us to boldly stand for truth.
What to Remember and Focus on During Opposition
When facing opposition, consider all the suffering and hostility Jesus endured “so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:3). Fix your eyes on Jesus. Choose to trust Him, knowing the Spirit will empower you and sustain you.
Remember the people of this world have been blinded by the enemy and do not recognize the truth. Because of this, determine to follow Jesus’ example and love them anyway. Pray they will come to know the truth and see their need for a Savior.
Jesus sees you, friend. And Scripture declares that your reward in heaven will be great when you suffer insults and persecution on account of His name (Matthew 5:11-12).
Not only is Jesus watching, but those around you as well. You never know the impact your courageous stand may have. Others may be inspired to stand for truth alongside you. While others may ask about your faith, giving you an opportunity to share the reason for your hope. Most importantly though, God is glorified.
Resolve to Stand for Truth
No matter what opposition you face, resolve to stand for truth, bold as a lion. For the ever-present Spirit will strengthen and empower you. “If God is for us, who can be against us? We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:31,37).
Friend, refuse to be intimidated and boldly show this world who Jesus is. If we don’t stand for truth, who will? Even though we may be surrounded by darkness, let’s keep shining our light. For our light is needed to dispel the darkness and point people to Jesus.
Because Jesus gave everything for us, may we be willing to give everything for Him.
Father, thank You for the Holy Spirit who dwells in us. Forgive us for the times we have yielded to fear. Help us to view people in this world through Your eyes, as sinners in need of a Savior. We ask for boldness to stand for truth in this lost and dying world so that people see the hope of Jesus in us. May our lives glorify You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Additional Scripture
Revelation 12:11, “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death” (NIV).
Psalm 56:3-4, “When I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (CSB).
Isaiah 41:10, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand” (CSB).
Reflective Questions
1. Do I struggle with any of the following: intimidation, keeping my focus on Jesus, viewing others through Jesus’ eyes?
2. What Bible verse(s) can I meditate on?
For Further Study
Learn more about resisting the enemy by putting on the armor of God in this post: Stand Strong Against the Enemy
Read how Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego stood firm in their faith here: Keep Standing Firm in the Faith
Learn more about how to hold onto truth in this post: Fight for Truth and Hold onto It.
