14 Apr, 2011
What's Your Answer?
“Is Jesus alive? Is He coming back?”
A 57 year-old man asked my dad these
two questions the other day at his job. The questions surprised my dad a bit, however, because he’s not only vocal about his faith in every aspect of his life, including at work, but he also lives a godly life, it was understandable why someone would approach him.
I jokingly said that he should have responded with, “I’m glad you asked. Why don’t you come to church with me Sunday? I’m sure my pastor would love to talk to you.” Unfortunately, there are some who don’t take advantage of every (or any) opportunity that is presented to them to share about Jesus. Don’t we pray that we can share the Good News of Jesus to non-believers? Haven’t we asked God to bring people into our life to whom we can show the love of Jesus?
I’m so proud of my dad. He answered his co-worker’s questions. He didn’t use big words, go into a theological debate, or make him feel stupid for not knowing about Jesus. He just continued to love his peer and is praying that this will take his friend closer to making Jesus His best friend.
Photo is courtesy of googleimages.com
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect...
What does today’s Scripture Story teach us about having an answer?
We need to put Christ first in our life. We can’t honor Him on Sunday and live for the world the rest of the week. People see through us. What’s in our hearts will be transparent on the outside.
We have to be in the Word to share the Word. We need to be ready to answers when people ask us questions about the Lord. Will we have every answer for every question? Probably not, but being honest, and treating them with gentleness and respect, will be one way for them to see Jesus in you.
All around us are people that God has put into our path. Some we see daily (at school or work). Others we see occasionally (when we get our haircut, stop and get our favorite coffee, or see the neighbors outside). It’s no accident that we encounter them. These are opportunities to love, share, and sow God’s mercy into their lives. Be spiritually prepared to answer and respond to questions that they may have.
How can we connect today’s story, God’s Story scripture, and our story to others?
1. Start each day with prayer. Remind yourself that there are hurting people that you will see. Ask God to help you see them with His eyes.
2. Live a holy life. You don’t have to look differently (strange) to be a Christian. As people usually make judgments about us on what they first see, remember to smile. You have the joy of the Lord. You have the Armor of the Lord at your disposal to wear each day.
3. Be comfortable talking about Jesus. Make Him part of your conversations. Don’t preach to them, but talk about Him like you talk about your other friends. If you never mention Christ, how will they know that you are a Christ follower?
4. Stop, look and listen. Stop talking so much. Look at your friends and acquaintances when they are talking. And listen. Really listen to what they are saying.
There’s no question that God will use you. The question is....will you let Him? So...what's your answer?
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