The Biggest Fear

If I say I’ll never mention the LORD or speak in his name, his word burns in my heart like a fire. It’s like a fire in my bones! I am worn out trying to hold it in! I can’t do it!

THE NUMBER ONE FEAR of the majority of people is speaking in public. But speaking up seems to be one fear God wants us all to get over. So where do we begin?

• Speak out about what breaks your heart. “I cannot keep from speaking. I must express my anguish. My bitter soul must complain.” (Job 7:11)
• Speak about what you know best, and wait to see what bridge God will provide to speak of himself. “I speak with all sincerity; I speak the truth.” (Job 33:3)
• Speak about God’s love. “I have not kept the good news of your justice hidden in my heart; I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power. I have told everyone in the great assembly of your unfailing love and faithfulness.” (Psalm 40:10)
• Speak to give the reasons for your faith. “To whom can I give warning? Who will listen when I speak?” (Jeremiah 6:10)
• Speak what God tells you, and leave the response and results to God. “When I give you a message, I will loosen your tongue and let you speak. Then you will say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says!’ Those who choose to listen will listen, but those who refuse will refuse, for they are rebels.” (Ezekiel 3:27)
• Speak and tell what you’ve seen God do. “I assure you, we tell you what we know and have seen, and yet you won’t believe our testimony.” (John 3:11)
• Speak the truth. “I speak with utter truthfulness. My conscience and the Holy Spirit confirm it.” (Romans 9:1)
• Speak of victories God has given. “I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me.” (Romans 15:18, NIV)