Our scripture this morning is Matthew 10:16-20.
Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves. But beware! For you will be handed over to the courts and will be flogged with whips in the synagogues. You will stand trial before governors and kings because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell the rulers and other unbelievers about me. When you are arrested, don’t worry about how to respond or what to say. God will give you the right words at the right time. For it is not you who will be speaking—it will be the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
Jesus tells us plainly that the world will oppose us when we share His message. He warns us to be “as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves”. We must be aware of the resistance evil will put up against His love, but we must continue to speak the Good News everywhere. It is our calling to go in His name, supported by the Holy Spirit we have been given.
Gracious God, we are amazed that You choose us as Your representatives to carry the Gospel to all. Strengthen us by faith and help us to use our gifts wisely. Amen.