The message of love.. Given lovingly.
Thinking back today on Jesus’s life today I realised… Jesus
used EVERY opportunity to witness. He didn’t just talk to people, he changed
their lives! Eg: The woman at the well.
Jesus saw into her very soul. Yet he wasn’t repulsed, or even just
“interested” in this person, but he wanted to give her true life. So many times
I pass over God-given openings because I am afraid, think the person will
misunderstand me, or that I can do it later. In reality, I’m wasting my time,
and theirs! (Paul understood this too; he told the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians
15:3-4 that he’s delivered the Gospel news to them first and foremost upon
meeting them.) Now obviously, as God, Jesus had it a whole of a lot easier; He
knew people’s entire lives and exactly what to say to awaken their interest,
and rebuke their sins. Yet He did not leave us without a means. Hebrews 4:12-13
remind us of the Word is living and active, and a two-edged sword to bare man’s
soul. Living and ACTIVE. That’s a verb… that means it DOES something. Planting
scriptures into anyone’s mind means you’re giving it all over to God, and it’s
His job anyway… With God’s tools in hand, we are never at a loss. However, this
does not mean you should instantly accost every poor unfortunate with John 3:16
whom you happen to have 5 minutes with. This is where I believe many Christians
go wrong: They zealously follow 1 Peter 3:15 but seem to completely miss the
last few words, that is, to do it in all gentleness and reverence. Now this was
coming from Peter, a man who was not known for his gentleness, or reverence,
before becoming a fisher-of-men, but rather his rough and ready ways. Yes,
witness to everyone you talk to, but no, don’t handle it in a way that merely
sows discord! Telling your cashier that Jesus loves her, is NOT going to change
her life. However, your conduct towards her goes a long way. Show conduct that
is God pleasing, and speak conversations that are God glorifying too. Build a
reputation (even if it’s only at your local Woolies!) of a gentle, reverent,
and honest person. It’s easier to witness to someone you’ve smiled at a few
times :)
This is something we need to constantly keep in mind: An
attitude that constantly seeks to give to God all our efforts. Even if the
people you witness to never come to Salvation, or even scorn you for adhering
to His laws GOD knows, He is the One we are striving for, not earthly glory.
