Dear Friend,
Welcome to August 2026.
We serve a faithful God who has promised never to leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). As we begin this new month, let us make a conscious effort each day to thank God for His unfailing faithfulness and goodness towards us.
This month, I would like us to reflect on the bold demonstration of faith shown by several Christians who have openly declared their faith in Jesus Christ on some of the world’s biggest sporting stages. Their willingness to publicly acknowledge Christ reminds us that faith is not something to be hidden but something to be openly lived out.
Beloved, one of the purposes of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is to empower believers to be bold and unashamed witnesses to Jesus Christ.
Jesus declared:
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, NKJV)
The book of Acts records the fulfilment of this promise as the early church boldly proclaimed the gospel despite persecution. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, they preached Christ with courage, and many were willing to suffer and even lay down their lives for their faith.
As believers today, we are also called to be Christ’s witnesses in our workplaces, schools, communities, and wherever God has placed us. Ephesians 4:11–12 teaches that Christ has given apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip His people for the work of ministry. Sharing the gospel is therefore not the responsibility of church leaders alone but the calling of every follower of Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19–20; 1 Peter 3:15).
During the recently concluded 2026 FIFA World Cup, millions of people around the world watched Christian footballers openly pray, worship, give thanks to God, and publicly declare their faith in Jesus Christ. Their testimony challenges each of us to ask:
- Do I feel ashamed when sharing the gospel?
- How often do I speak about Jesus with my work colleagues, neighbours, friends, family members, or even strangers?
- What fears or barriers prevent me from sharing my faith?
- How do I respond when I face rejection?
The Apostle Paul boldly declared:
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16, NKJV)
Our opinions, arguments, and human wisdom cannot save anyone. God brings salvation through the gospel as His Holy Spirit works in the hearts of those who hear and believe (1 Corinthians 1:18; 2:1–5).
Jesus also said:
“For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels.” (Luke 9:26, NKJV)
This month, let us follow the example of the early believers, who gathered together in prayer and asked God for boldness. The Lord answered their prayer by filling them afresh with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness (Acts 4:29–31). Let us also pray for boldness and courage to be faithful witnesses to Christ, both in private and in public.
Friend, as we witness increasing sin, suffering, and evil in our world, this is not the time to remain silent. It is time to increase our efforts in sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Although sin is increasing, God’s grace is greater still:
“…But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more.” (Romans 5:20, NKJV)
As we faithfully proclaim the gospel, God continues to extend His saving grace to all who repent and believe.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8, NKJV)
May the Lord grant you strength, boldness, wisdom, compassion, and abundant grace to be a faithful witness for Jesus Christ wherever He has placed you.
Yours in Christ,
