The Courage to Step Out

Date: Monday, December 15, 2025

Readings: Psalm 42 | Isaiah 29:17–24 | Acts 5:12–16

Acts 5:12–16 paints a striking picture of the early church: ordinary believers whose lives radiated such authenticity and spiritual power that crowds gathered just hoping Peter’s shadow might touch them. Their influence didn’t come from status or strategy but from faithful people surrendered to the Spirit’s work in them.

In a time when influence is measured by clicks and algorithms, this passage disrupts our metrics. God’s power doesn’t require polished images or perfect circumstances. It grows in people who dare to live transparently, love sacrificially, and pray boldly. The apostles weren’t chasing fame; they were pursuing Jesus. And their lives became conduits of healing that drew others toward Him.

Today’s world is desperate for that kind of grounded presence: people whose faith is so alive that others feel safer, braver, and more hopeful in their company. My friend, Pastor Ron Eckert had that effect on people, and we can too. Advent invites us to embody the same courage to believe in God's power within us. Light doesn’t have to be loud to transform darkness.

Devotional Prompts:

• What holds you back from living your faith more openly?
• How might God use your ordinary actions to encourage or heal others?
• Where is the Spirit nudging you to take a courageous step?
• How can your presence bring peace in your community this week?

Prayer:
Holy Spirit, breathe courage into us. Make our lives vessels of Your healing and hope. Use even our small acts of faithfulness to bear witness to Your power. Amen.