In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

Ephesians 3:12

What gives us boldness?  Beyond that, what prevents us from being bold?  The context of the text where the word boldness appears, is Paul’s discussion of the mystery of Christ and that God uses the redeemed to make clear ‘the manifold wisdom of God.’  He goes on to declare that this manifestation of His wisdom is, ‘according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.’  Paul then remarks, ‘in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him.’  Here is a specific statement regarding our access to God, most particularly in prayer, and that it is with ‘boldness’ and confidence.’  Today, we want to dwell upon the meaning of the word ‘boldness.’  Does having boldness, in any context, mean that there is an utter absence of fear?  An examination of the bold behavior of valiant soldiers, firefighters, police officers, and, from the Scriptures, people like the apostles, demonstrate to us not necessarily the absence of fears, but the subjugation of them to fulfill a higher purpose.  Our innate sinfulness, feelings of unworthiness, and natural reluctance may conspire to prevent us from praying with boldness.  Christ, by the power of His Holy Spirit, enables us to ‘come boldly before the Throne of Grace to obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.’  In Christ we have boldness.  Christ puts away all our fears.

Our Good and Wise God,
we rejoice that through Christ,
You put away all our fears.
We praise You that we can indeed come
unto You with boldness
that we could never have in any other way
than by Christ.

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning