Daily Delight

Have you ever been in a position where God wanted you to speak the truth in a negative situation, yet you resisted for fear of how others would react? I have to admit, this is one of the biggest areas of trouble for me as a Christian and it often holds me back from speaking up. When I finally get time alone with God, He gently reminds me to speak up—even when it is scary—because truth brings the light into the dark.

A few times I have followed the Lord's prompting and things turned out fine. On the flip side, there are times when my speaking up wasn't taken well and I faced mocking and rejection. It caused me to regret ever speaking up, and fear of doing it ever again quickly sunk in.

The Bible warns us that this is not an easy road, that persecution will come. Matthew 10:16-23 tells us that we are being sent into enemy territory, yet we are still meant to be light to our dark work. But, we will not be alone.

"When they deliver you over, don't be anxious about how you are to speak or you are to say, for what you will say will be given to you. For it is not you who speaks, but the Spirit of the Father speaking through you." -Matthew 10:19-20 (ESV)

We will be hated by the world because we follow Jesus, but He gives us a beautiful promise: If we endure to the end, we will be saved (Matthew 10:23). Even better, imagine how many unbelievers could be saved if we didn't hold back from speaking truth!

I'll end with Joshua 1:9, my favorite verse for when I need courage.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be frightened and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." -Joshua 1:9 (ESV)

About the Author

Alexis Newlin

Alexis is a 34-year-old lover of Jesus, loose leaf tea, rollercoasters, and adventures. Originally from Marietta GA, Alexis now resides in Fresno, CA where she works as a recreation therapist at Valley Children's. Alexis enjoys teaching and encouraging kids that they can do and be anything they want, despite their disability.

When not at work, you can find Alexis outdoors enjoying a walk in her neighborhood, scoping out the newest food truck, hanging out with friends or planning her next trip. Her church, The Revival Center, and family mean the world to her. They have supported her through the loss of her mother and a cancer diagnosis. 

Through her trials and triumphs, God has pushed her to share her faith and encourage others through her writing. Writing is something she is passionate about and it is a joy for her to share her walk with God and encourage others.