What is boldness?
Boldness is defined as the willingness to take risks and act confidently. It’s the courage to step out and do what others may not, even when it feels uncomfortable or uncertain.
Some people hesitate to be bold because they fear being perceived as “pushy,” “arrogant,” or “demanding.” I get it. No one wants to be labeled as the “bossy” person. But what if we shifted our perspective on boldness? Instead of thinking about being bold for ourselves, let’s focus on being bold for Christ.
A Person of Boldness
Isaiah was a prophet known for his incredible courage. In Isaiah 6, God asked, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” Without hesitation, Isaiah responded, “Here am I. Send me.”
Isaiah’s response reveals a boldness and obedience that we can all strive to imitate. He didn’t offer excuses or ask God to find someone else. He understood that God needed something to be done, and he was ready to be the one to do it. This is the kind of obedience we should aim for—responding to God’s call without delay, offering our time and service wholeheartedly for His glory.
Imitating That Boldness
Recently, I received a certificate of recognition for my work in mission ministry. The words on the certificate read: “Kao Yer took the time and dedication to plan the mission ministry and sent out 12 people to Thailand from the church. She exudes a humble heart to further God’s kingdom. Even through her troubled times, she remained faithful and trusted God in her ministry. Her love for Christ and the church is so inspiring. With her busy schedule, she serves God and the church wholeheartedly.”
I reflected on this for many days, and truthfully, I felt unworthy of such recognition. There are so many people in my church who are more deserving of the spotlight. But I realized one thing—it’s not about me. It’s all about Jesus. The time spent on my knees, praying for God to use me, open my eyes, and change my heart—that’s where the real work happens. God placed this ministry in my heart, and it’s through His power that anything was accomplished. The boldness I exhibited wasn’t from me—it was from the Holy Spirit, working in me to glorify Him.
Challenges to Be Bold
There are countless opportunities to stand up and be bold. It could be as simple as approaching someone to share the gospel, praying for a sister who’s struggling, or offering encouragement over lunch. For a bigger challenge, you might feel called to lead Bible study groups, serve in your local church, or volunteer in your community to spread God’s love. It can feel intimidating, but don’t let that stop you.
Pray for Boldness.
Ask God to provide you with the courage and opportunities to step out in boldness. Just as the disciples did, pray for boldness in your own life. In Acts 4:29b, they prayed, “Enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.” The Lord responded in Acts 4:31b, “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.”
Boldness comes from God—it is not something we muster up on our own. When we ask, He empowers us. Wherever God leads, we are called to go with obedience and courage, trusting that He will give us the strength.
Are You Ready to Respond?
Just like Isaiah, we are all invited to say, “Here am I. Send me.” Will you respond to God’s call with boldness and obedience?
Prayer:
Father, I am nothing without You—the Creator and Author of my life. I ask for Your help. Help me to be bold like Isaiah. Give me courage to live boldly for You. Grant me the bold faith to step forward in obedience, trusting that You are always with me. Help me to shine brightly for You in this dark world. Even when I feel afraid, help me to say, Yes to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Kao Yer Yang (N. Cha Meng Yang)
Kao Yer Yang (N. Cha Meng Yang) is a devoted wife and mother of four, celebrating 15 years of marriage with her loving husband. Over the past 15 years, she has been deeply committed to serving her local church, currently fulfilling the role of Mission Ministry Director and serving as a board member. Kao Yer has a passion for ministry and finds joy in building a foundation of hope through Jesus, particularly in her role as a mother, where she loves to minister to her children.
An outgoing and compassionate individual, Kao Yer cherishes time spent with her family. Her journey has been profoundly shaped by her experience as a medical mom, which has reshaped her perspective on life and deepened her faith. With a heart for service and a spirit of resilience, she continues to make an impact both within her family and community.