Initiating with Courage

I remember the first time I shared my faith with someone. As I walked toward him, my heart pounded. So many doubts rushed through my mind.

What if I’m bothering him? What if he responds negatively?

I thought I was ready. But when the moment came, fear took over. I almost walked away. Then, a reassuring look from my friend gave me courage to begin. With my hands shaking, I initiated the conversation. To my surprise, he listened! He asked questions, shared his thoughts, and paid attention. At the end, I asked him, “Would you like to receive Christ right now?”

He said, “Yes!”

That moment changed something in me. I wanted to keep sharing Jesus with others. But if I’m honest, fear still tries to stop me. It’s the first moment—the first word, the opening question, the shift from casual to spiritual—that feels hard. I fear rejection, awkwardness, or not having all the answers.

The believers in the book of Acts faced fear too. In chapter 4, the rulers warned them to stop talking about Jesus. But instead of running away, they prayed. They did not ask for safety. Instead, they asked God for boldness to continue speaking God’s word in spite of the threats.

What about you? Have you ever felt nervous to talk about Jesus? Do you stay quiet because you're afraid?

Courage doesn’t mean you’re never afraid. It means you choose to obey God even when you are. The good news is that you don’t have to be brave all by yourself. God gives us boldness when we ask Him for it.

Acts 4:13 shows us that the believers were bold because they had been with Jesus. When we spend time with Jesus and welcome the Holy Spirit, we find courage to speak His truth—even when it’s hard.

So, if you’re feeling afraid to start a gospel conversation, you’re not alone. Ask God for courage. He will help you.

Application Questions:

• Who is someone you can talk to about Jesus this week? What’s one small step you can take this week to initiate with courage?
• What fear tends to hold you back the most when it comes to sharing your faith—ask God to help you overcome it?

Prayer:

"Lord, just like the believers in Acts, I ask You to give me boldness. Help me not to walk away when I sense Your prompting. I confess that fear often gets in the way, but I want to be faithful. Fill me with Your Spirit so I can share your love with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Stacy Thomas
Trinidad and Tonago
Campus Ministry