27th February 2026

Fearless Evangelism

[Pray] for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth

boldly to make known the mystery of the Gospel.  

Ephesians 6:19 

Today's Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:14-20.

Scottish Reformed Church minister Robert Murray M’Cheyne (1813–43) loved to preach God’s Word from the pulpit. Yet he realised it was one thing to speak the gospel to fellow Christians who hung on his every word, but quite another to share it with non-Christians who seemed disinterested or even aggressive. Wrestling with God’s call to evangelise, he realised he was putting too much value on the opinions of others. What did he do? He prayed, knowing that freedom from worrying over the “esteem or contempt” of others “must be given from the Lord”.

Fearing how others might react to our Christian witness appears to be one of the “devil’s schemes” to make us ineffective (Ephesians 6:11). That is why Paul asked his readers, “Pray also for me . . . that I will boldly make known the mystery of the Gospel” (v 19).

Note that Paul wrote from prison, and that sharing the Gospel was not just losing him friends, it was gaining him powerful enemies who sought his death. Yet despite the pressure, he said: “Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I should” (v 20). Paul knew in the face of contempt that prayer was the key to speaking boldly and joyfully about Jesus.

Does a fear of how others could react stop you from sharing your faith? By prayer God will help us value His Word above the opinions of others, giving us all we need to declare Him fearlessly.

Prayer: Loving God, help me value Your opinion more than the opinion of others. Give me boldness to tell others about all that You have done in my life. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

26th February 2026

Apathy

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil

walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. "

1 Peter 5:8

Today's Bible Reading: 1 Peter 5:6-11.

The History books, tell us, of the shocking events which led up to the destruction of the United States fleet at Pearl Harbor. On that fateful day of December 7, 1941, the Japanese attacked. We know now that that attack was invited by the failure to be always vigilant. The result was the destruction of the American fleet-the cause was tragic indifference. When comfort and ease and pleasure are put ahead of duty and conviction, progress is always set back.

What makes us Christians shrug our shoulders when we ought to be flexing our muscles? What makes us apathetic in a day when there are loads to lift, a world to be won, and captives to be set free? Why are so many bored, when the times demand action? Christ told us that in the last days there would be an insipid attitude toward life. What about you today; Are you apathetic?

Prayer: Almighty God, and Father, take away the apathy, that so often blinds my vision. In Christ's name I ask. Amen.

25th February 2026

Diligent Study

". . . they received the word with all readiness . . ."

Acts 17:11

Today's Bible Reading: Acts 17:10-15.

In Acts 17, we have a beautiful example of how believers in Berea approached the Word of God with a spirit of diligence and open-mindedness. The Bereans are described as "more fair-minded" (v 11) than the Thessalonians. They possessed a noble characteristic of openness and willingness to receive the Word of God. Instead of hastily dismissing or accepting the teachings they heard, they demonstrated an eagerness to explore the Scriptures themselves. This attitude of readiness allowed them to approach the Word with humility and a desire for truth, rather than relying solely on the teachings of others.

Again, the Bereans did not stop at mere reception of the Word; they went a step further by diligently "searching the Scriptures daily" (v 11). This regular commitment to studying God's Word demonstrated their seriousness and devotion. They understood that the Scriptures were a wellspring of wisdom and revelation, and they sought to deepen their understanding and validate the teachings they received.

Their daily pursuit of truth resulted in a profound impact. Many of the Bereans, both Jews and Greeks, came to faith in Jesus Christ ( v 12). Their diligent study not only solidified their beliefs but also opened doors for others to encounter the transforming power of the Gospel. The Bereans' example reminds us that our personal growth and understanding of the Scriptures have the potential to impact not only our lives but also those around us.

As we reflect on the Bereans' diligent study, let us apply their principles to our own lives. First, let us cultivate an attitude of openness and readiness to receive the Word of God. May we approach the Scriptures with a humble heart, acknowledging our need for divine wisdom and guidance. Secondly, let us commit to regular and intentional study of the Word. Through consistent engagement with the Scriptures, we can deepen our relationship with God and gain a clearer understanding of His truth. And Third, As we study, let us rely on the Spirit's illumination to unveil the profound truths hidden within the Scriptures.

Prayer:Gracious Father, thank You for the example of the Bereans and their commitment to diligent study. Grant me a heart that is open to Your Word, and ready to receive Your truth with humility and eagerness. In Christ's name. Amen.