A Compelling Witness
When it comes to sharing your faith, what makes a
compelling witness? Some might say that one needs to live the life that Jesus
calls us to live. Be a loving caring person. Others think that one should talk
about their belief in God. I would add one more action––share how God has been
a blessing in your life. Of course
doing all of the above might lead one to think that you are a compelling
witness.
 |
However, being a strong witness is no guarantee that
the person that is receiving your message will choose to believe in God. The
good witness is no different than a good seed. The sower scatters the seeds.
The seeds fall on fertile soil, shallow soil, soil infested with weeds’ seeds. When
your witnessing falls upon reluctant ears, is there anything that can yet be
done?
In my novel, Baggage burdens. Bill acts in a very caring
way toward his friend, Jill. He helps Jill find a replacement vehicle. He helps
her reconcile the relationship with her eldest son. When he is challenged about his faith in prayer, he
shares how he sees God responding to his prayers. Still, Jill doesn’t buy into
his faith in God. Bill has the needed answer, but it takes time and patience.
“Something wrong?”
“I don’t think I can do it,” Jill confesses. “Whatever
I come up with sounds like I’m making excuses. That’ll never work.”
“The fact that you can recognize what doesn’t work
proves you will come up with the right words. And if you don’t, don’t worry. No
one is perfect. You can do it. I’m sure of it. Trust me,” says Bill.
“I don’t know.”
“Jill, you really have to work on that trust. Believe
me when I say I know you can do it.”
“But I don’t want to blow it.”
“Do you want help?”
“You can’t tell me what to say. It has to come from
me.”
“You’re right, but I know how I can help you come up
with the right words.”
“How?”
“Pray.”
“Pray?”
“Yes. Pray. Let’s ask God to lead you in your talk
with Daniel.”
“I don’t know.”
“You sound like Moses when he said to the Lord that he
didn’t have the ability to speak to pharaoh. Remember. God gave him the ability
he needed.”
“That’s in the Bible. That’s a long time ago.”
“You don’t think it happens today?”
“Not to my knowledge. I’ve never heard anyone claim that God inspired them to say anything
of value.”
“Then hear it
now. Many times in talking with clients at the Wellness Center and even
when I was the personnel manager I’ve said things I never thought of. Some
times I said things in ways I wouldn’t have imagined. I’ve given thanks to the
Lord for opening my eyes, or rather opening my mouth at the right time and
saying the right things. Believe me, it pays to ask for the Lord’s guidance in
uncertain times.”
Bill speaks with such confidence that Jill refrains
from challenging him. Her doubts continue to plague her to the point of
considering giving up on the idea of talking to Daniel.
Jill’s continuing silence prompts Bill to ask, “Would
you like me to pray with you, to ask for the Lord’s leading on this healing
venture?”
Jill nods. When he finishes Jill says, “Thank you. Now
can we change topics?” She pulls her hands back.
haiku capsule:
You
sharing your faith
through
caring words and actions
What else
is needed?
Next blog: Not Perfect
No comments:
Post a Comment