Be Bold!

2 Corinthians 3:7-18

Take a look at verse 12 of this passage:  'Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold.'

Great verse, isn't it.  Who doesn't want to be bold?  But what is the hope of which Paul speaks?  Such a a hope as what?  Verses 7 - 12 speak about a 'glory which lasts' (v. 11) 'a ministry of the Spirit' (v. 8) and 'a ministry that brings righteousness' (v. 9).  All good things that transcend this life and promise a future that is joyful beyond anything we have experienced in this mortal life.

I am reminded of the verses in the first book of Corinthians, the very famous chapter 13, commonly called the love chapter - we've all heard it read at weddings.  But these lines don't get as much play as 'love is kind.  love is patient, etc.  Look at verse 12 and think about how they relate to this chapter and the focus on Moses and the veil:

For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

We don't know the whole story yet, do we?  We do know the ending:  there will be no need for veils; we won't see a blurry reflection in a mirror.  We will be face to face with Jesus, and we will experience glory that lasts!

When we've been there 10,000 years
Bright shining as the sun
We've no less case to sing God's praise
Thank when we've first begun - Amazing Grace

We know the ending.  Where do you need boldness in your life?

• Do you have a coworker who needs a listening ear?  Can you be Jesus' hands and feet?
• Do you have a difficult family member?  Can you boldly serve them in Jesus' name?
• Are you doubting that God really loves you?  Read these verses again, and claim these promises.  God loves you, and He longs for you to fully experience the glory that will last for all eternity.

Lord, send your Holy Spirit.  Fill me with boldness to share you with others, remembering that it's not ME I'm sharing.  It's not by my might or by my power - I would fail miserably on my own. Help me to be bold for you.  In your name I pray, Amen.