Led by the Spirit: Journey Through the Book of Acts Part 2Sample

Day 7: Boldness to Partner the Spirit

Everyone loves a good underdog story. It's no wonder that we are captivated by stories of whistleblowers and activists who stand up boldly against powerful, corporate forces of injustice, exposing corruption and fighting for what is right. But have you ever stopped to think about what it must be like to step into such shoes? It’s not easy. It’s downright terrifying.

In Acts 13:1-12, we witness the Holy Spirit commissioning Paul for his first missionary journey, together with Barnabas. In hindsight, we know too well how this began the incredible advancement of the Gospel, but it is easy to overlook the stakes and opposition facing the duo at Paphos. The false prophet and sorcerer Bar-Jesus held influence over the proconsul (v6-7), and had he succeeded, not only would the proconsul be swayed from the truth but Paul and Barnabas would have likely faced dangers too.

Yet in an astonishing move, Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, calls out Bar-Jesus for his deception (v9-10) and strikes him blind for attempting to lead the proconsul astray (v11-12). This was not only an act of judgment from God, but also an act of courageous faith from Paul, who did not shy away from exposing evil even when the consequences might have been great. It is through Paul’s radical boldness, of being willing to trust and partner with the Holy Spirit, that the Gospel was able to reach new frontiers.

Today, not all of us will face the same dramatic situations that Paul or Barnabas did. In the safe, clean comforts of modern-day Singapore, it’s uncommon to be placed in a spot where you will ever need to whistle blow or speak out for the oppressed. But remember that Jesus’ standards for holiness and integrity run deep and absolute; perhaps you might face the dilemma of calling out an unethical practice at work or defend someone who is being ostracised by others. Or perhaps it is simply having the courage to speak the truth of the Gospel, when the Holy Spirit prompts you.

In these God-ordained “underdog” moments, the fear of backlash, rejection, or ridicule can be overwhelming. But just like Paul, we can choose to be empowered by the Holy Spirit to speak the truth, even when it feels daunting. After all, the same Spirit that gave Paul the courage to confront Bar-Jesus some 2,000 years ago is the same Spirit that equips us to this very day.

Reflect:

• Partnering the Holy Spirit presupposes that we are in communion with the Holy Spirit, hearing His voice and obeying His guidance. Take time to connect with the Holy Spirit and to hear from Him.
• Ask the Lord for boldness and courage to obey the Holy Spirit’s promptings and guidance to make a difference in a world starved of truth and justice.