But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect" 1 Peter 3:15
Do you set apart Christ as Lord in your life? Has anyone asked you "What is it about you?" And have you answered unwaveringly that is is the Lord working in your life? Have you done it without pushing the envelope?
In today's society, unfortunately, many have been "turned off" by Christianity and all they think it stands for. Because of this, we have to be mindful of our delivery. This is such a hard thing to do, especially when you are on fire for the Lord.
Have you ever wondered what it is that people see in us, as true believers that makes them want what we have? I can't be so dense as to believe that it's all about the material things. Because I've met some people in my life that just radiated the love of God from every ounce of their being, and didn't have much in the way of material possessions.
I have a best friend like that. For years she just stood by me, witnessing without saying a word. She was the only person that I admired enough not to argue my point of view with (back before I was a believer.) It just seemed disrespectful to do it.
Are you like my friend, in your day to day dealings with people? Do they know you by your deeds and not just by your words? Do you walk the walk; not just talk the talk? And do you have a gentle and respectful way of sharing with them where your hope comes from?
--Lord, today I ask you, to help me shine Your Light to all I come into contact with. Let me be blessed enough to answer when someone asks for the source of my hope. Let me be gentle and respectful in every way. Let my witness be effective. I ask that you work through all that read this, in the same manner. I ask this in Jesus' Holy Name.
Amen.
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Shalene, Thank you for that wonderful post. Witnessing for Christ doesn't mean standing at a corner shouting out scriptures. It doesn't mean hitting others over the head with your beliefs. It means love, patience and example. I'm so glad you had a friend like that. I pray that there are more believers who befriend and stand by those who believe not, as Jesus had commanded us to love our neighbors as well...God bless you.
ReplyDeleteI thought about this a lot the year I lived in NYC. It's so true! In NYC you see a lol of "Christians" with signs condemning people to Hell if they don't convert. Not that those who don't accept Christ won't end up in Hell, it's true that they will, but until they die and are judged by the only true judge we are in no place to condemn them. What must people think when they see these signs. No wonder why so many think we're close-minded. You're right, condemnation is not the way to be a good witness. It is through our actions that we often witness. We are seed planters. When the moment is right, God will give us the chance to share our faith.
ReplyDeleteI love this post Shalene, great job! I am a big fan of lifestyle evangelism. I have helped to win many people to the Lord through my actions and lifestyle, rather than throwing judgement and condemnation at them.
ReplyDeleteCheck out Rob Bell's Nooma videos, in particular one called "Bullhorn". It touches on this same topic in a very interesting way. Good stuff!