“You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you shall BE My witnesses” (Acts 2:4).
Okay, this is not for the squeamish or for those who live by making excuses.
The very idea of “going witnessing” strikes rabid fear in most Christians. No one likes doors slammed in our face, rejection, being labeled a “fanatic” or facing questions we aren’t equipped to answer.
In fact, it’s a fairly common belief that evangelism is for those who are “called” or “gifted” do the evangelizing.
But isn’t evangelism for all of us who follow Jesus Christ? Aren’t we ALL called to be His ambassadors and His voice? Aren’t you glad someone shared Jesus with you?
For many of us, “going witnessing” has been reduced to short-term mission trips, special outreaches, and inviting people to attend Easter and Christmas productions. Sharing Jesus has been assigned to a tiny and infrequent part of our life.
“Going witnessing” takes a lot of preparation…. mentally, spiritually and emotionally. I have to make time for it and get psyched up for it. It feels like a reluctant visit to the dentist’s office. I know I should go, but I don’t enjoy going.
We can do better.
Here’s my solution… let’s not GO witnessing; let’s BE His witness… everyday!
“Being His witness” means that I am ALWAYS ready, able, and looking for “divine appointments.” I don’t have to get psyched up. I just live my life ready to be His mouthpiece. When I live my life as being His witness, than each day becomes ‘normal Christianity.’ The fear factor diminishes, and I’m excited to experience how God can use me each and every day.
I think this is what New Testament evangelism looked like. It was part and parcel of who they were. Going witnessing is out… “being His witness” keeps my flame for Him burning brightly.
C’mon, the excuses are getting old. Let’s replace them with Being His witness… together!'
Intentional for souls,
Tom Elie
Evangelist/President
Oasis World Ministries
www.oasisworldministries.org
P.S. So what do you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
1 comment:
This is so good, and so true. For years I stressed out about witnessing, and feeling guilty for the absence of it in my life. As I press into God, and fall more and more in love with Jesus, the more I want others to know Him. Sometimes its hard to hear that still small voice, and have the courage to obey it. But I want that more and more in my life. I desire for God to live through me, and love others through me. God doesn't just want us to be with Him at church, or when we do our devotions. He wants us to be with Him, and bring Him to every part of our lives - work, school, grocery store, etc. It is my desire to have more "divine appointments", and to carry Jesus with me every where I go.
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