Over the last few weeks, I’ve talked about learning to listen to others by asking more questions and then also reclining with Jesus to find a posture of peace that is actually attractive for both believers and unbelievers. Along those same lines, I was telling a story about being “backed into a corner” to share the Gospel. It first happened to me as I worked with Mighty Oaks Warrior Foundation. I was so excited about how God was moving in the ministry, I would tell anyone who would listen. Most people, Christians and non-Christians alike, would “lean in” and start asking me questions about what made the organization so successful. At that moment of the conversation, I always knew that I had backed myself into a corner and was forced to tell them about Jesus and His healing power of love. Not once did anyone pull back from that conversation. Even the biggest “Jesus-sceptic” would engage the thought that Jesus DOES HEAL. It was amazing.
I started thinking, why don’t all my conversations about faith go in that direction? First, I’m probably not sharing with the same passion and second, I’m not engaging the listener by taking them on the journey of the story THEY want to go on.
Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
According to God’s Word, we are called to share about Jesus. Why don’t we do it more often? Think about what you’re passionate about, and ask yourself…Do you have any trouble telling others about your passion? Most likely not. We should take this as a cue when talking about our faith. Instead of trying to force ourselves to push our beliefs on others, we should take the posture of leaning back (but NOT leaning too far back) and bring them up as naturally as any of our other passions.
I hope this helps and you’ll take more time this week with God!
Love you!
Have a great week!