"If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit" (Galatians 5:25).
I've had enough!
Enough of my lame excuses for why I don't share my faith. Enough of the weak and tired reasons I give to the Holy Spirit, as to think I could talk Him out of His passionate pursuit of a searching soul.
"Come on Tom, step it up... be real with God. After all, He sees past these flimsy arguments every time. Who are you really fooling?"
I (well, actually my flesh) can be pretty convincing. Listen to these six excuses...
1. It's not the right time now... maybe later. So when IS the right time?
"Now is the day of salvation" (2 Corinthians 6:2).
2. I'm afraid. What if I'm rejected? And your point? Are you the first to be rejected?
"If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you" (1 Peter 4:14).
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear" (1 John 5:18).
3. I don't know what to say. Of course you don't. But He does.
"If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit" (Galatians 5:25).
4. I'm not prayed up enough. And when will that time come? "Be ready in season and out of season" (2 Timothy 4:2).
5. I don't really feel like it. I can't be on top of my game everyday. Says who? Love pushes past feelings. Do I always feel like going to work?
"For the love of Christ compels us..." (2 Corinthians 6:14).
6. There's plenty of time... I'll get around to it. Maybe for me there is, but what if they're running out of time?
"Knowing the terror of the Lord, we persuade men." (2 Corinthians 6:11).
My flesh needs some tough talk now and then. It's OK... I'll live. And actually I will be much happier when the Spirit is ruling me instead of my flesh.
Thanks for Your patience, Lord.... keep up the good work.
Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org
