Boldness Through the Cross
The cross transforms timidity into boldness, for in Jesus weakness is met with His strength.
Devotional Credit: His Victorious Indwelling compiled by Nick Harrison
Photo Credit: Unsplash
And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus’ resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many people. When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son of God!” MATTHEW 27:50–54
This passage draws us to the transforming power of the cross. When Jesus gave up His spirit, the earth shook, the temple curtain tore, tombs opened, and hardened soldiers confessed, “Surely he was the Son of God.” That moment of surrender was not defeat but overwhelming victory. In the shadow of the cross, even the timid are emboldened. Nick Harrison, through the selected devotion, shows how gazing upon the cross changes everything.
Peter is an example of human frailty. He boldly declared his loyalty, even to death, yet soon afterward denied Jesus with curses. His fear overcame his promises. Joseph of Arimathea, on the other hand, once too timid to publicly follow, was emboldened by the cross to boldly ask Pilate for the body of Jesus. The same cross that exposed Peter’s weakness gave Joseph courage. This contrast is not to condemn, but to reveal the difference the cross makes when it is truly seen and embraced.
The devotion reminds us that courage and boldness are not produced by our personalities or natural resolve. They come from beholding the sufferings of Jesus, from letting the reality of His sacrifice grip our hearts. Without the cross alive in us, even the strongest resolve fades into fear. With the cross, even the timid are given boldness beyond themselves.
The same is true for us. If we desire courage to live and serve faithfully, it is not found in stirring up strength within, but in looking with faith at the crucified and risen Lord. The more we rest in His finished work, the more we discover that our fears lose their power, and boldness rises from within. The cross changes everything, turning weakness into strength, and silence into proclamation.
Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
My child, the cross is not only the place where your sins were forgiven, it is also the place where My power is revealed in your weakness. Do not look within yourself for boldness, for you will not find it there. Look to the One who endured the cross, despising its shame, and is now seated at My right hand.
When you take your eyes off the cross, fear creeps in and you stumble like Peter. But when you gaze upon My Son crucified, you are changed as Joseph was. What once seemed impossible becomes possible, not by your effort, but by My life in you.
I have called you not to timidity, but to power, love, and a sound mind. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, making you bold to stand, bold to speak, and bold to serve. Do not measure yourself by your failures. Fix your eyes on the cross, and let His victory define you.
Scripture References: Matthew 27:50-54, Hebrews 12:2, 2 Timothy 1:7, Romans 8:11, Galatians 2:20, 1 Corinthians 2:2, Philippians 1:20, Acts 4:13, John 19:38.
Real-Life Analogy
Think of a child who is hesitant to step onto a stage for a school performance. Alone, the fear feels overwhelming. But when they spot a parent smiling from the front row, confidence rises and fear gives way to courage. The sight of someone they trust changes everything.
In the same way, when I face fearful moments, I can look to the cross and quietly say, “Lord, I trust You to live Your life through me in this very moment.” His presence turns timidity into boldness and fear into faith.
Prayer of Confidence
Lord, I thank You that boldness is not something I must create, but something You provide through the cross. I rejoice that in Jesus my weakness is met with Your strength, and my fear is overcome by Your Spirit within me. I rest today in the finished work of the cross, confident that You will express Your courage through me.