Not Ashamed!

As our early morning Bible study met today we were discussing Romans 1:16-23. Paul declared, "I am not ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes..." (Ro.1:16a). We discussed the fact that all too often we have found ourselves in situations in which we were ashamed of the Gospel/afraid to speak up for Christ. In With high school friends, in family gatherings, in different settings at the university. Paul's affirmation is convicting in light of our wavering. But I also remember that this same Paul who was not ashamed, asked others to pray that he would have boldness (Eph.6:19). I can certainly relate to that. As I walk around our town on Wednesday evenings this Summer praying for and interacting with various individuals in what we are calling our "Summer of Sharing" I find myself hesitating, withdrawing, and I need constantly to be reminded to step out in faith and not to be ashamed of the Gospel. We have not received as spirit of timidity (2Tim.1:7). Lord, please grant me boldness to proclaim the mystery of the Gospel and forgive me for the times I have been ashamed.