Casandra Martin

“…but the righteous are bold as a lion.” – Proverbs 28:1b

My son loves the Disney movie The Lion King. I can’t even begin to tell you how many times we have watched that movie. The story follows a family of lions as the youngest, Simba, discovers who he is and whether he has what it takes to follow his destiny. Simba’s father, Mufasa, is everything that the King of the Beasts should be – strong, confident, wise, and larger-than-life. His evil brother, Scar, uses lies, trickery, and deceit to steal the throne, banishing Simba even as he destroys his confidence and steals his future.

When we talk about being bold, the world often pictures Scar. He is bold in the sense that he is willing to take risks in order to steal the spotlight. He knows what he wants and takes whatever steps he needs to take in order to get what he wants. Simba, on the other hand, has to find a different kind of boldness in order to reclaim the legacy that is his birthright. Friendship, honesty, humility, and certainty of purpose empower Simba to face his uncle and take his place in the circle of life.

God means for you to be bold. Boldness is the fruit born in a heart that has put on the armor of God. Bold really has two different definitions. The first is the idea of courage. Boldness is the inner strength to step up, speak out, and stand firm. The second is a picture of distinctiveness. Bold type stands out from the page. A bold color draws the eye. A bold move sets one apart from the crowd. Putting on Christ gives us the boldness, the courage, and the fearlessness we need to stand with God in the middle of our struggles. It empowers us to take the next step, speak the needed word, or get up one more time. Wearing the armor of God makes us distinctive in a world that wants us to blend in and gives us the boldness we need to live in His purpose.

My Jesus Resolution today is to be bold. Boldness is not flashy or flamboyant. Boldness is the courage to look like Jesus every day, in every place. It isn’t noisy and doesn’t call attention to itself. Boldness simply does what is necessary to follow Jesus all the way.