Assertive

<<self-confident, forceful>>

To be assertive is to exude bold confidence in speech or behaviour. An assertive person comfortably express their opinions openly as they engage in productive dialog, able to stand up for themselves or others in a calm and positive way without aggression, and work through disagreements graciously. We demonstrate respect for others by not putting them down, yet without diminishing respect for ourselves as we express our feelings and responsibilities. Meanwhile, passive folk can easily be used and abused as they automatically agree with others to keep the peace. However, the Bible says, "We are to speak the truth in love" (Eph 4:15). This calls for honesty yet sensitivity and humility too, in declaring what needs to be said or doing what needs to be done for the benefit of someone else. It is taking our responsibility seriously of caring for others. We all need to exercise wisdom and self-control in communicating and interacting with other people.

As believers, we are to know our authority in Christ, and take our stand against Satan who tries to keep redeemed humanity ignorant of our rights and position as children of God (Jas 4:7; 1 Pet 5:9). The blood of Christ deals with the sin which once blocked the path, so now we can confidently and boldly approach the throne of grace (Heb 4:16). As Christ’s representatives, entrusted to enforce His rule in

Through Christ stand your ground against Satan

our lives and the lives of those around us, we are to authorized to "Go into all the world" and fulfil the great commission (Mt 28:19,20; Mk 16:15-18).

Paul asks for prayer that “I might speak boldly as I ought to speak” (Eph 6:20). This was for the purpose of spreading the gospel, God's message of hope which was of supreme value to the hearers, not any viewpoints of his own. Don't we all need this divine empowering.