“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be My witnesses, telling people about Me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8 NLT
I can remember the day we paired up to go out and be a witness for Jesus! There was a nervous excitement at the idea that we would share the gospel and see someone’s life changed for eternity.
We started the morning with a fruit box and hearts burning to lead someone to Christ. The first guy we saw was standing on the street corner, looking into the sky. His smile was our invitation to proceed. However, I was unprepared for the next moment’s extreme emotion. The man turned and looked at us, and the second our eyes connected, his face was overcome with anger. He yelled, “Get out of my face! I don’t want to hear it—just get out of my face!” Shocked and discouraged, we turned around and walked back to our group. I can remember the feeling of shame and horror that met me after this incident. I didn’t even get to tell the man that Jesus loved him.
Of course, upon our return to the church, we talked with the pastor about the experience. I learned that God’s plan was more extensive than just walking up to random people on a city street and asking if they knew Jesus as their personal Savior. God wanted my life to speak louder for Jesus, so it confirmed Jesus’ message when I did talk.
It is the opportunity of a lifetime to let our daily actions and speech give glory to God in a way that makes room for the conversation about Jesus! (1 Peter 2:12) What a relief to know we can follow the command of Christ without sacrificing our temperament and dignity. Our obedience to be a witness does not have to look like the local street evangelist with a Bible in one hand, a microphone in the other, and a portable speaker to tote. We simply need to allow our lives to give testimony to the power and work of Christ in our own hearts and minds. Our words should confirm the gospel and provide those watching or listening with a chance to choose Jesus.
Dig Deeper
1. Read Matthew 5:16. List five ways your daily life can be a witness to those around you.
2. Identify and commit to two things you can do to intentionally share the gospel and be a witness to the work of Christ in your heart.
