Be Not Afraid

Scripture
Acts18:9-11

One night in a vision the Lord said to Paul, “Do not be afraid. Go on speaking, and do not be silent, for I am with you. No one will attack and harm you, for I have many people in this city.” He settled there for a year and a half and taught the word of God among them.

Observation
Do not be afraid.  This is a powerful message that God gives to us.  Do not be afraid, for I am with you always.  Do not be afraid, for I go before you.  Be not afraid... one of my favorite songs/hymns at church.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=snmwD6d9Xo4

I applaud all those people that have the courage to stand up to society today and with love, tell the truth.  I don't see this often, but I've been very impressed with our current Pope Francis and his ability to speak with love and understanding and yet still speak God's truth.  It seems to upset people on the extreme left and right, but I think that means he's doing it right.

Application
How can I better proclaim the Good News? I usually avoid confrontational talk, but I should be better prepared to defend and proclaim the Good News when appropriate instead of just sitting or standing silently, looking on.  I should practice what I would say in different situations, so I don't say something completely offensive, or don't say anything at all. Everything should be approached with love, knowing that God will be with me when I need to speak on His behalf.  I'm still not sure how to do this, but I will be looking for ways to improve.

Prayer
Lord, help me to not be afraid of speaking your truth.  Help me to not be critical or shutdown when I hear people speaking your truth. I know I barely understand anything about You, and I'm just a human with faults.  You make me better.  Thank you for everything you do and I will follow you.   Amen.