How Do I Witness?

     I remember when I could first feel God moving in my life.  I had been a Christian for over 15 years just going through the motions, but it never did seem to click.  This was such an awesome feeling when I was finally able to experience his love personally and I wanted to share this feeling with everyone I knew.  The first place I started sharing was on social media because I just knew that my "friends" would all understand my story, feel convicted and give their lives to God in an instant....  Boy, was I wrong.  After countless "discussions" with my "friends," I realized that maybe I was going about this all wrong.

     I began to search the bible looking for examples of witnessing.  I found numerous examples regarding witnessing to people and have come to understand that their are two ways to witness.  One way is by works.  Matthew 5:16 tells us, "in the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your God deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." The other way is by words.  Peter tells us "but in your hearts be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have," (1 Peter 3:15).  From these examples, I have come up with a few tips on how we as Christians can get our feet wet with sharing our faith with the lost.

     1.  Have a "Door Opener."  For me, I wear Christian t-shirts with catchy phrases that have often been the start of many conversations (just make sure you understand what the shirt means.  

     2.  Been sure to give your testimony.  Our human nature calls for a "what's in it for me" attitude.  Do not sugar coat anything, give them the truth and let the testimony speak for itself.

     3.  Be sure to present the gospel in a clear, concise way.  This will allow no questions stemmed from confusion.  I study from a few different translations of the Bibile.  Usually the NIV my first choice, unless I am working with youth, then I used the New Living Translation.  Sometimes I find myself also needing the NLT to break down the passages that I have been struggling with.  Be sure to be aware of the age of the audience and use that knowledge when sharing the gospel.  The verse that I would suggest starting with is John 3:16. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life."  This covers the full purpose of Christianity.

     4.  Be sure to avoid pointing out their wrongdoings.  No one likes to be attacked by a hypocrite.  No one is perfect, something we have to be cognizant of.  "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye," (Matthew 7:3).  

     5.  Offer to pray with them before they leave.  Once you part ways, show them that you care by keeping in touch.  Ask them if it is ok to call them or come to visit to check on them in the future.  If they agree, then don't just tell tell you will be checking up with them...actually do it!  If we are attempting to start a fire you don't simply strike a match in the wood and walk away.  You have to stand by and feed this fire kindling until the flame has become strong enough to burn on its own.  The same is true when you plant this spark into a new Christian.  Follow up and keep in touch.  

     Do not hesitate to share the gospel.  Prayer for guidance and God will give you the words to say.  He doesn't require you to be a biblical scholar, just a willing servant.  Be available and He will take care of the rest.

Everlasting God

     "Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord, wait upon the Lord. We will wait upon the Lord."  Do you ever wonder why Chris Tomlin felt the need need to repeat that phrase?  Part of the reason is because it makes sense musically. However, I believe that the more important reason is because patience is something that all Christians must learn to exercise.  Waiting is critical in learning that we are not in charge!  Do you need me to repeat that?
     One of the earliest examples of patience in the Bible involved Jacob.  "Jacob served seven years to get Rachel, but they only seemed like a few days to him because of his love for her." (Genesis 29:20).  Wow! Talk about getting caught up in the moment and losing track of time.
     I often wonder how long is it appropriate to wait upon the Lord?  Our human nature in today's culture desires instantaneous results.  Faster is always better...right?  Don't answer that.  I cannot tell you how many times I have regretted saying or doing something spur in the moment.  Sometimes it can be beneficial to sit back and reflect on our motives behind our requests.  Is this going to be something to bring glory to him, or ourself?  If it seems that God is taking his sweet time granting your request, maybe he is trying to tell you something.  Either it is not something that he has willed for you, or it is his way of saying "not yet."
    So, what are we to do as we wait upon the Lord?  "Commit your way to the Lord;  He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.  Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked ways (Psalm 37:6-7).  It is not always easy, but, trust God and his timing.  Jeremiah 29:11 tells us "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Just because you want it now, doesn't mean that you should get it now.  If you find yourself waiting, it is simply God saying "not yet my child."  Until then, put on a smile and remember that "Strength will rise as we wait upon The Lord."

Answering God's Calling

Pastor Rick Warren writes: “If you’re going to follow God’s calling on your life, you’ve got to believe it’s never, never too late”. This is such a nice encouragement to those individuals who God has called, but it’s not intended for everyone… right? Wrong! God has a specific calling and purpose for every person ever conceived. Whether revealed through a struggle, a great sacrifice, or a sickness that shows and demonstrates God’s love and will, He does have plans for us all.
It is our responsibility to seek God’s navigation. Most likely, we will not be comfortable with the direction he points us, but remember that He does not make mistakes. “It is unthinkable that God would do wrong” (Job 34:12). Too often I doubt myself, thinking I am not worthy enough to carry out His purpose. I am encouraged with remembering the calling of the first disciples (Matt. 4:18-22), teaching us that God doesn’t call the qualified, he qualifies the called. Don’t be afraid to ask him to reveal your purpose to you. He will be with you every step of the way to guide and direct you.