It’s embarrassing for us to admit that we’re really quite timid about being brave for the Lord. We all would like to have the courage to stand tall and fearlessly march forward in the path the Lord has prepared for us. We would like to tell every person we meet about Christ. But we are hampered by fear and often oppressed by guilt over our failures in personal evangelism.
A few years ago, I posted a Bible Bite about Scaredy Cats. It’s time to resurrect that post because some are starting a new job, and others are returning to class. You are nervous about being a good witness for Jesus Christ.
Let’s face it – often, we’re Scaredy Cats. If you don’t like the feline metaphor, perhaps ‘Christian Chicken’ resonates more with you.
Can the Lord use scaredy cats or Christian chickens? The good news is yes! With each small, seemingly insignificant step forward, the Lord is able to strengthen you for bigger things ahead. The key to progress is obedience, even if you have to do it anonymously or after dark, with all your limbs trembling and your heart pounding.
Here’s a story from the Old Testament – not copied verbatim, but definitely realistic.
"Guys, come here," Gideon nervously whispers to his ten servants.
"What is it, master? You seem to have the jitters."
"The Lord has spoken to me, and He told me He was going to use me – can you imagine!! Yes, use little old me to deliver Israel from the Midianites. I told the Lord that I really wasn't qualified. My family was about as weak as they come, and as for me, well, I'm the runt of the litter. But the Lord assured me He Himself would send me and that I was to go in this strength, and He promised to be with me."
"So then, Master Gideon, why are your knees knocking together? It looks almost like you're scared."
"To tell you the truth, I am a tad bit nervous. Truthfully, I'm scared stiff because the Lord wants me to start at my father's house, and you know my dad! He worships Baal just like the rest of them. He's got that big idol statue and the Baal altar on our front lawn, and the Lord wants me to tear it all down. Then He wants me to offer up a sacrifice to the Lord on that very spot of ground!"
"Oooooooh, we understand now. That's quite a step. So, what are you going to do?"
'Well, I want to obey the Lord. In fact, I have no other option. To honour God in my life is to obey Him. As nervous as I am, with His help, we will do it. But I think I won't do it in broad daylight. I'm just too scared. I'll do it after dark."
So Gideon took ten men of his servants and did as the LORD had told him. But because he was too afraid of his family and the men of the town to do it by day, he did it by night. Judges 6:27
He was scared, but he did it. Timid, but he obeyed the Lord – even if it was after dark. Brave souls might mock Gideon for his timid approach, but the reality is – he obeyed the Lord.
Don’t beat yourself up over your timidity. Focus on obedience. If you’re too scared to do it in person, share it on social media. Or, leave a pen with a verse on it on a counter or the bus seat. Someone will find it, read it and use it. Scared to share Christ directly? Well, then, at least share Him indirectly.
For Gideon, that timid start was just the beginning. As his life unfolded, God used him repeatedly to do exploits on His behalf. The key was Gideon’s obedience and confidence in the Lord, even if he was shaking in his boots.
We have absolutely no reason to be embarrassed of the Gospel. Yes, we may be timid. We could even be cowardly at times, and yes, scaredy cats – but that has everything to do with ourselves – not the message and definitely not God! Let’s humbly and timidly, with deliberate intentionality, prayerfully look for ways to share Christ – even if it is anonymously, and then leave it with God, Who suffers from none of our limitations, weaknesses or frailties. It’s His good news!
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes… Romans 1:16
Dear child of God, scaredy cats can grow into lions for the Lord. God uses scaredy cats and Christian chickens.
Don’t hesitate to share a thought from your personal experience or a verse that has been a blessing to you – in the comment section below. Or, if you would like to reach out privately, click below.
