When I am away at these conferences with colleagues, I often find myself wondering whether they know I am a Christian. And if not, should I make more of an effort to let them know? Am I not being a good witness in my actions and my words? Shouldn't other people recognize a Christian by their love, as it says in the Bible, and do others see that love in me? And if it came down to it, would I be bold enough to stand up for what I believe, even if other people find it foolish (or worse yet in this day and age, intolerant)? So tonight, in the Bible place by the Gideons, I looked for verses about being bold. Here is the verse that I have now decided will be the one I will try to remember when I travel for work:
Be strong. Take courage. Don't be intimidated. Don't give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He's right there with you. He won't let you down; he won't leave you.
-Hebrews 13: 5-6 (The Message)