The word confidence literally means “freedom of speech, openness.” Believers can come boldly to the throne of grace with openness and freedom and not be afraid. We have this boldness because of the shed blood of Jesus Christ. Because we are too prone to fail, we should not have confidence in ourselves, but in Jesus Christ, who never fails.

Because of this confidence in Christ and of our confession of Christ, we can experience joy and hope. Even in the midst of suffering, we can enjoy our spiritual experience and not simply endure it.

Verse for today: “So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?’ ” (Hebrews 13:6, NIV)

Further study: Acts 14:1-7, Hebrews 10:35; Ephesians 6:10-20; 1 John 4:17-18.

Action assignment: Does your desire to “fit in” inhibit you from witnessing? Today, envision that the Lord Jesus or the Apostle Paul is with you. Freely express your faith to someone you haven’t yet spoken to about the Saviour.