1 Thessalonians 2:2
“but after we had already suffered and been mistreated in Philippi, as you know, we had the boldness in our God to speak to you the gospel of God amid much opposition.”
Paul and his team had confidence amidst resistance. The last three entries addressed opposition. It comes from three sources, others, the devil and our own selfish nature. This can be quite a firestorm. Chaos can often be our reality when we’re opposed. However, The Lord wants us to be confident and bold.
How can we be confident amidst the turbulence? Knowing the truth and the way of truth is key. I’ve heard it said that bank tellers aren’t educated about counterfeit bills, but are experts in real currency.
The more we know God and walk in His ways, the more confident we will be in Him. This is learned through small steps. We learn to trust Him in small things. We learn the ways of faith. The outcome might not be visible, but we learn to realize He will come through and it will be good. It usually isn’t what we expect, but it will be good. We grow in confidence in Him.
This is more than confidence one gains by experience. It’s our alliance with God. Romans 8:16 says, “The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” The Lord is within us confirming the experience. This brings great assurance. It’s said that “there is strength in numbers.” We’ve got the creator and the sustainer of the universe with us. We’ve got His presence, strength and resources. We are functioning as we were designed, to be in union with our creator. This gives confidence.
We can have opposition. It’s never enjoyable, but we can confidently press on with what and Who we know.
Lord, thanks for who You are and how You are with us. Help us to confidently walk and live for You.