The Lord has given us the ability to communicate by words. Yes, body language speaks loudly, as well. But written and spoken words are universally employed in communications around the world.
Good life. Good works. Good words. (Philippians 2:15, 2Corinthians 2:14) We are to shine in the heart of our community as a luminary. We are to spread the aroma of the knowledge of Christ everywhere.
There are two extremes: Christians who never say a word about Christ to their friends. They think their good lifestyle is all that’s required. The polar opposite? Those who are always saying or shouting good words, but there’s nothing beautifully impressive about their lives.
Which extreme is less wrong? Probably the first one. The Christian who fails to bring Christ into any conversation may, at least, be asked about their motivation to do good works. Hopefully, then, they would tell the enquirer about Jesus. The other extreme is the most damaging to the cause of Christ. In fact, when the world hears all about our beliefs but sees our less-than-impressive behaviour every day, they become cynical. Some become atheists.
What you say is important, but when you say it and how you say it is too. Remember – who says it is the most important. Your lifestyle and testimony either adds credibility to what you say for Christ or it detracts from any good words you may try to say.
The Apostle Peter was writing Christians who were feeling the heat of persecution. In that context, he wrote these words to them:
Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So, don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong! 1Peter 3:13-17 (New Living Translation)
Always remember to be open about your faith. Your friends talk about what they did last night or last weekend. They had fun. They told you what they enjoyed. Don’t keep the Christian things you enjoy a big top-secret. For example –
- Favourite books? Don’t be afraid to say: “It may sound strange, but I am really enjoying reading the Bible.” Period.
- Wednesday evening? “I can’t make it. I usually try to go to a prayer meeting.” Period.
- Life’s rotten! What is there to life? What’s the point? “I used to have the same thoughts, but now that I have found peace and satisfaction, I really do have an inner joy and purpose I never had before.” Period.
- Casino night? “I don’t think so. I appreciate the invite, but I tend not to enjoy that stuff anymore. Before I had Christ, it was okay, maybe – but I’ve lost my appetite for all that stuff. Christ has really given me a contentment and peace I never had before.” Period.
Remember ‘period’. Far better to say too little, than too much. Sometimes, in our excited eagerness to see a family member or a friend saved, we say too much. Sadly, that blunder may mean they will shut us down for a long time to come.
In the four examples above, you have spoken up for Christ. You have shared a bit of your new life and newfound joy with them. You have said enough to pique their interest – to arouse their curiosity. They may not say anything else in that conversation, but you can be sure they walked away thinking you enjoy something they know nothing about.
Pray for them. In five years, one might come back and say: “I remember you saying that you go to prayer meetings. My wife just left me for another guy, and I’m just a mess-of-a-wreck. I’m wondering if you would pray for me. I think I must need God or something.”
Some think they must tell all they know about the Gospel in one encounter, just in case they don’t get another opportunity. Always remember that you are just one link in the chain of Grace.
The Holy Spirit has an infinite number of ways to work in the lives of others. At that given moment, He, the Holy Spirit, wants to use you as one link – so pray you don’t blow it.
Think of your little word as an appetizer – to whet their appetite for Christ. Or a manageable spoonful for them to digest. But beware of your attempts to force-feed someone; it can become very messy.
In all your talk and written words online, use the Christ-likeness filter. Would Jesus be pleased with what I said or how I said it? Is this sarcastic quip or pejorative jab that I am posting – is it honouring to my Lord? We are not called to be mouthy protesters or arrogant, argumentative debaters on the streets or online. Our witness and words for Christ are always to be polite, gracious, gentle, sensitive and humbly respectful.
Be sure of this; the Lord wants you to be a shining light in this dark world. He wants you to live Christ and share Christ with others. If you knew the cure for some deadly disease – would you keep it quiet, or would you find polite and meaningful ways to get the good news out?
The worst of all diseases is sin. You have found the cure in Christ – He expects you to pass the good news along. This is a very important responsibility for every Christian. Your words are critical.
Pray each day for at least one opportunity to tell someone else that you have found peace through Christ. Ask the Lord to bring someone across your path today and, also, to give you the courage and wisdom to say the right things.
Assignment for today:
- What does Romans 1:16 mean? Why might a Christian be ashamed?
- Read John 1:40-42. Who would you like to bring to Jesus?
- Verses to consider: Psalm 141:3, Proverbs 12:18, 15:1, 16:24, 21:23, 25:11, Romans 12:14, Colossians 4:6, Titus 3:1-2, James 1:19-20
