As I write this monthly letter to you, I am seated in a library of Christian books and DVDs nestled inside the cozy confines of a church in Texas. Great titles surround me—like The Revelation of Jesus Christ by John Walvoord, Beth Moore's Believing God, and Reasons for Believing by Frank Harber.
Sadly, most people I interact with today aren't going to read these amazing books. Some don't know they exist, and others simply wouldn't venture into a church to check them out.
How Can Others Learn About God?
So how can these "others" know what it means to be saved? Like the guy at the Starbucks window who made my decaf mocha—or the lady at Sam's Club who offered to help me take my cart to the car. How can they learn about God? How can I share about the great gift of salvation I've been given?
As usual, Jesus gave the best answer to these questions centuries before you and I were ever born. Take a look at His suggestion in several different versions of Scripture:
"By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
— John 13:35 (NIV)
"Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples."
— John 13:35 (NLT)
"Everyone will know that you are my disciples because of your love for each other."
— John 13:35 (GOD'S WORD Translation)
The Message is Clear
No matter what the version, the message is the same: people need to see the love of Jesus through our day-to-day interactions!
Friends, I am becoming more and more convinced that sharing our faith is this simple. No tracts, books, DVDs or sermons are necessary! Sure, these extra texts and tools are awesome, but it's the straightforward love of the Lord we share with one another that points directly to Him!
Like the old Sunday School song reframes it: "And they'll know we are Christians by our love..."
Put It Into Practice
So, let's get out and do just that today:
- Love your brothers and sisters in the Lord—because that's a fantastic witness to everyone around you!
- Speak respectfully to the people you meet, whether at the fast food window or in the bank or to the telephone marketer who may be interrupting dinner
- Be kind and gentle with neighbors, strangers, and even that cranky driver who just cut into your lane
Why? Because Jesus said so. Because this is the way others will know you are saved!
May this summer be a time of great blessing for you and your family. All of us at Sonkist Ministries have you in our prayers!
Thought of the Month
Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters, fear God, and respect the king.
— I Peter 2:17 (New Living Translation)