40 Faces, 40 Places: A Devotional JourneySample

Esther from London

Sometimes whole-life discipleship looks like being bold.

I have worked in public health for many years as a specialist infection prevention and control nurse.

I earnestly prayed for God to give me the boldness to tell others about Jesus. I believe God answered that prayer with distinct opportunities. At the same time, I believe He amazingly gave me a special boldness for such special occasions. For example, at a critical time of uncertainty during the pandemic, I was filled so full of love for colleagues that I could tell them publicly in meetings that I was going to pray for a positive outcome for all. I never imagined having the ability to say and do something like that.

At other times, colleagues have come into my office and asked me to pray for and with them. These occasions have become more frequent, and I have even had the privilege of seeing some colleagues choose to follow Jesus. I’m totally astounded.

To be clear, I also recognize I have ignored many other God-given opportunities. It’s not easy, but I am learning. Books about joining God’s mission in the workplace have impacted me, and I have become braver as I rely more and more on God.

Reflection

Is it ironic to nervously pray for boldness? Perhaps not – if we weren’t nervous, we’d be bold already!

There are many aspects to being a whole-life disciple. The 6-Ms of fruitfulness is a helpful way to spot some of those different ways God might be working through you. Which of these might you notice on your frontline today?

• Modeling godly character
• Making good work
• Ministering grace and love
• Molding culture
• Being a Mouthpiece for truth and justice
• Being a Messenger of the gospel

Living for Christ is always about more than our words, but we shouldn’t confuse this broader truth with any excuse to remain silent about our faith and God’s goodness. Others notice what we convey with our lives and what we say with our words.

Esther’s story is a good example of praying for boldness to speak up about the gospel. Interestingly, God gave her boldness and opportunities to use it! Perhaps that’s where the ‘nervous prayer’ comes in –God often lovingly takes us outside our comfort zones when we ask Him.

Prayer

Lord, I earnestly (and nervously!) pray for boldness. As I consider the 6-Ms today, draw a particular M to pray for. Thank You that You open up ways for us to speak for You when we ask. Like Paul, please meet us more than halfway and give us the right words when we need them.