January 9
Standing Boldly
for Him
“What about someone who says in front of others that they know me?
I will also say in front of my Father who is in heaven that I know them.
But what about someone who says in front of others that they don’t know me?
I will say in front of my Father who is in heaven that I don’t know them.”
Matthew 10:32-33 (NIrV)
Elliot stared at the invitation on his desk. It was for the company’s annual dinner, a grand event attended by all the big names at his firm. The dress code, the speeches, the mingling—it was all intimidating enough. But what worried him most was the conversation that would inevitably arise about his newfound faith.
A few months ago, Elliot had quietly started attending a small church near his apartment. He’d been seeking something more, something deeper, and found it in Christ. But at work, he had never mentioned his faith. His colleagues were a lively, opinionated group, quick to tease and dismiss anything they didn’t understand.
As the dinner approached, Elliot wrestled with anxiety. “What if they think I’m weird?” he thought. “What if they laugh?”
The evening arrived, and Elliot took a deep breath before stepping into the elegant ballroom. As he joined a conversation at his table, the topic shifted to religion. One of his coworkers laughed and said, “I don’t get why anyone believes in that stuff anymore. It’s so outdated!”
Elliot felt his pulse quicken. He thought about staying quiet, but Matthew 10:32-33 came to his mind: “What about someone who says in front of others that they know me?” Elliot knew this was a moment to stand for his faith.
He cleared his throat. “Actually, I’m a Christian,” he said. His voice trembled slightly, but he continued, “I started going to church recently, and it’s changed my life. I’ve found peace I didn’t think was possible.”
There was a brief pause. Then, one coworker nodded thoughtfully, and another asked, “Really? What’s that been like?” To Elliot’s surprise, the conversation turned sincere. He shared his experience in a way that felt natural, and though not everyone agreed, no one mocked him.
Later that night, as Elliot walked home, he felt a sense of freedom. He had stepped out in faith, and God had been with him. The fear he’d carried for so long seemed smaller now.
Elliot realized that standing for Christ wasn’t about having all the answers or being perfect—it was about trusting God in the moment and being honest about his faith.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for the promise that when we acknowledge You, You acknowledge us before the Father.
Help us to be bold in sharing our faith, even when it’s difficult.
Like Elliot, remind us that we don’t have to be perfect or know everything to stand for You.
Give us courage and the right words when the time comes.
Thank You for walking with us in every moment.
Amen.
