"The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." (Proverbs 28:1, NIV)

Most of us don't feel bold. We feel tired, anxious or unsure what to say when faith comes up at work or at the gym. Proverbs 28:1 doesn't say the righteous feel bold. It says they are bold, and the reason is not personality. It's position.

Boldness comes from a clean conscience

The first half of the verse describes someone running from a threat that isn't even there. Guilt makes people jumpy. The second half describes the opposite: someone who has nothing to hide because they have been made right with God. In Christ, that's every believer. "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1). When you know you're forgiven, you stop running.

Boldness comes from God's presence

When Peter and John stood before the religious leaders, the leaders "saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men" and "took note that these men had been with Jesus" (Acts 4:13). Their boldness had a source. Time with Jesus made ordinary men fearless.

What lion-hearted faith looks like day to day

• At work: doing honest work when no one is watching, and speaking up for what's right.
• At the gym: training your body while keeping your identity in Christ, not in your reflection.
• At home: leading your family in prayer, even when it feels awkward at first.
• In conversation: answering honestly when someone asks why you believe (1 Peter 3:15).

A prayer for boldness

"Lord, thank You that I am made right with You through Jesus. Take away the fear that makes me run. Fill me with Your Spirit so I can speak and live with courage today. Amen."

Wear the reminder

Our Bold as Lions designs put Proverbs 28:1 front and center. Choose the acid-wash tee, the dark gray gym tank or the Eternal hoodie with lion back artwork.