The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognize them as men who had been with Jesus. Act 4:13 (NLT)
Do you have a friend who is successful in an area that you want success in? Maybe you have one that is an established business person and you’re just starting out. Or, maybe they’re an A student and you want to create better study habits. As you spend time with this person, you find that you become more like him or her. People rub off on us when we spend time with them. This same things happens when you spend time with God.
When people witnessed the disciples’ confidence, they assumed it was because they had been with Jesus. Hanging out with God causes you to act more like Him. One way to spend time with Him is to read the Bible. Reading it is a form of communication with Him. It’s like reading a email or text from a friend.
But first, do you see Him as a friend? If you think that God is mean and vindictive, you aren’t going to enjoy reading the Bible. The relationship you began with Him when you gave your life to Jesus won’t be fulfilling if you don’t enjoy the time you spend with Him.
As you get to know God as your loving Father, you will realize that He isn’t out to punish you. The Bible will begin to come alive to you. God’s Words aren’t condemning; they are encouraging. His words will convince you that you’re loved just as you are and your time with Him will be something you look forward to every day.
I am challenging you to keep spending time with God by reading the Bible in its correct context—as a love letter written to you. As you do, God’s character is going to rub off on you.