Scripture-
Acts 4:29-32 – And now Lord, “Look upon their threats and grant your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.
Observation-
Peter has just given their defense before the council speaking boldly in the Spirit claiming the name of Jesus as the only way to salvation. Then the believers prayed together, in the name of Jesus, for boldness in the face of adversity. They prayed for the Spirit to work in and through them to heal, performs signs and continue the ministry. Everyone was filled with the Spirit and they preached the word of God with strength.
Application –
I can’t defend the gospel of Jesus Christ on my own. There is nothing else I have to offer except the truth in the death, burial, resurrection and grace in Jesus. I must rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to provide me with the words to speak not meekly or in fear but with the conviction of truth in the saving grace of the gospel. We must pray for the Spirit to give us strength, encouragement in the face of threats and increasing persecution.
Prayer –
Father,
Thank you the power of the Holy Spirit. The same power that rose Jesus is alive in me. Let me turn to you in prayer, have the Spirit guide my words to boldly proclaim your gospel and lovingly be an ambassador for the Kingdom.