"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: Luke 12:11-12

 May 28

"Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say." - Luke 12:11-12 (NKJV)

Most people do not like public speaking. Introverts especially struggle with it. By great practice and careful instruction, most of us can become adequate public speakers. But we certainly don't jump at opportunities to go speak before others, especially hostile strangers and authority figures. The disciples of old were no different and knew they could never get the upper hand in religious disputes with the well-educated Jewish leaders. Nevertheless, Jesus promised them they would not be abandoned or left unprepared. He assured both them and us today that the Holy Spirit will give the appropriate words in our times of need.

The disciples' public testimonies didn't make them popular, but they were always effective. While the disciples of old may not have looked particularly impressive, the Holy Spirit always gave them the words and courage to point out God's work in the world through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. Each of us today in our hurting world and post-Christian culture, also need to pray for good opportunities to witness for Christ. Then we need to relax and trust God to help us with our words. Our Lord's promise of the Spirit's help, however, does not compensate for lack of preparation. Remember that these disciples of old had four years of personal instruction, teaching, experience, and practical applications. We today also need to study God's Word and pray in order to be prepared. Then God will bring his truths to our mind when we most need them and help us speak and witness for Jesus in both effective and miraculous ways.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, Thank you for the right words. Amen. 

Meditation For The Day: Words are powerful tools for Christ.

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Spring Renewal Paperback – February 21, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)