Scripture
17 Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.
Reflection
You might have heard this before, but here it goes: “Faith is always personal, but never private”.
In an article American Pastor Tim Keller wrote there are three major reasons for evangelistic unfruitfulness:
“There is a lack of sensitivity — countered by the humility that comes from knowing we are undeserving sinners. There is a lack of courage — countered by the boldness that comes from knowing we are unconditionally loved. And indifference. We look around us and we see people struggling to find meaning, satisfaction, hope, confidence. The biggest reason we keep our mouths shut is that we are failing in love for them.”
(You can read the full article here: https://www.redeemer.com/redeemer-report/article/being_public_with_our_faith)
I have certainly found reasons not to share when I encountered opportunities to witness and to speak about the reason I believe in what I believe in, but often it had to do with my own fears.
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18a)
May we not only remember His Word the next time the opportunity arises but also be filled with His Love for people in a way that it triumphs over every fear!
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Pray for the persecuted Church, our brothers and sisters across the world who are made to suffer because they are Christian. For more information about who is being persecuted and how to pray, visit www.opendoorsuk.org.
