Witnessing to Others

God gives us so much, it can be overwhelming, yet so encouraging and can develop great confidence. As we take in the Word, rightly divided (2 Tim: 2:15), it forms the doctrine in our inner man to impact every aspect of our being to manifest Christ. His glory shines in and through us as we are faithful to live our convictions in Christ. As we allow it, this grace seems to bubble out, spilling over to impact others, magnifying Him: “According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.” (Phil.1:20) What will we personally do with all we have been given?

Preparation is key, or we will put it in the background and become complacent and lukewarm about this gift. As we walk by faith to hold forth the Word in thankfulness, fleshly thinking bombards us with a multiplicity of convincing reasons NOT to do it: it’s uncomfortable, we may stumble, we could be rejected or receive unkind comments, or it may make others uncomfortable, etc. The flesh and Satan’s doctrine in this world are effective deterrents to derail, even heartfelt efforts. Will we yield to this or believe God’s Word and be empowered? “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”  (Eph. 6:16)

Sharing the gospel today seems much different than even ten years ago. For example, people today don’t give eye contact, are glued to electronics, much less comfortable and experienced at conversing, and lack basic awareness of the Bible, often unchurched. Even just the lack of eye contact and staying focused upon self-absorbing activities are boundaries that sadly relay a message: ”Stay away!” Engaging them is definitely against what is comfortable to our flesh and may seem intimidating, especially if observers criticize, discourage, or persecute us. Holding forth the Word pushes us out of our comfort zone, yet it is a decision of faith, with eternal rewards.

Most of us know in the depth of our soul that unbelievers are blind, bound to the eternal Lake of fire, and that many saints are bewitched, desperately in need of encouragement and edification. What would godly love say? Walk by faith and press toward the mark through the challenges to please our Father, not men. God teaches through Paul’s epistles that we have been left in this sin cursed world for His purpose: 1) As ambassadors: “For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” (Eph. 6:20), 2) As servants: “And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,” (2 Tim. 2:24)  and 3) As soldiers: “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” (2 Tim. 2:3), who are to follow Paul as our pattern. (I Tim. 1:16)

Consider this: Press through your fear walls, and come to people where they are as a love sacrifice. (Rom. 12:1-2) Be in the moment, on God’s behalf, to serve in charity. Prefer what these dear ones need eternally, over your flesh and fears. God in us is our confidence, power, and wisdom to hold forth the Truth, no matter our challenge. Ideas: Hand out tracts, wear a shirt with a Bible verse, or invite people to Bible study. Allow Christ to live in you; it is His power. The ripple effect of what we choose has a profound eternal impact. Don’t wait to understand it all or until the flesh is ready. The flesh will NEVER change or embrace godly living. Plan to take little steps!
 

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