This Week's Devotional: Not Ashamed

Week 7 – February 11-17, 2024

This week’s daily readings:

Week 7 - February 11-17, 2024

This week’s devotional:

Not Ashamed
By Pastor Tammilynn Elerath

Scripture:

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…

— Romans 1:16 (NIV) 

Reflection:

Back in 2016, I was patched into the biker ministry called “Black Sheep Harley-Davidsons For Christ.” The vest they placed on me had a patch that quoted the Bible verse above. I soon found that knowing that was on my back for everyone to see changed my entire demeanor. I entered situations boldly, carrying the confidence of the Holy Spirit. I would fearlessly approach Hell’s Angels bikers and offer prayer. Many times, I was surprised when these tougher-than-nails, leathered-up bikers would get choked up as they shared the hurt and heartache they were enduring. I would pray with them and watch as the Holy Spirit would soften their hearts and open their minds to the love of Christ. Because I was unashamed, I got to be a participant and watch the Gospel at work. I was a weekend warrior for Christ! 

But when I got home and took off my vest, it was as if I lost my confidence. I would go to the store or to school with the timidity of the cowardly lion! I was effective on the weekends as a Black Sheep, but I was reluctant and scared as Tammilynn in my everyday life. That had to change! I knew I needed to bridge the gap and actually rely on God’s power to use me to share the Gospel with confidence in my everyday world. 

I’m still a work in progress, but it helps me to keep this scripture in my mind throughout the week: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes!”  

Prayer: 

Almighty God, I’m so grateful for the Gospel – the Good News – and all of the love you’ve shown by sending your one and only Son to save us. I realize there is power in your word and I can rely on that power to help me share with others. On my own, I know I am weak and ineffectual, but wonderful things can happen when I share your miraculous word! I pray you will help me be bold and never ashamed of this wonderful message of salvation. Holy Spirit, please bring the right words to mind when they are needed: words filled with love and strength and comfort for those in need of you. I ask in Jesus’ name. Amen