Using these questions as a guide, reflect on the past week and journal what you have learned and experienced through the daily devotions.

1. How do you think most people would answer the question, “Why does the church exist?”
2. The word “church” is derived from the Greek word “ekklésia,” meaning an assembling or gathering. How does this idea differ from the way most of us view the church?
3. Read Acts 5:38–41. Why do you think the early church leaders had such incredible tenacity in the face of tremendous persecution?
4. What do you think prevents the church today from being as bold as it was in the early days of the Christian movement?
5. Talk about a time when you benefited from someone else’s boldness. When did someone give time or money so you could know more about having a relationship with Jesus? How did that boldness affect you?
6. In which of the areas of your life— sharing your faith, being generous, serving others, being baptized, or putting your faith in Jesus—do you need to be bold? How could you take a step in that direction this week?

PRAYER:

Lord God, Thank you for the first week of this 40-Day study. Thank you for the gift of newness found in you. Help us as we learn to surrender more fully to You.

You tell us in Your Word that the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid but gives us power, love, and self-discipline. Father, forgive us for ignoring the power and courage and strength and love that you offer. Forgive us for sleeping when we need to be awake. Forgive us for focusing so much on ourselves that we lose sight of You.

Strengthen us, Lord, and help us to become more like You. Make us bold. Make us passionate. Make us light up the darkness. And each day, continue to make us new so that we can sound your roar.

 In Jesus’ Name,

Amen