Central Truth

This scripture shows Jesus instructing the apostles on what to expect in the journey ahead. We as believers will go through trials in this journey of life but it is our calling to continue to share our faith with non-believers as we wait for the deliverance of the Lord.

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Reflections

This journey of life that we are on is plagued by multiple challenges and persecutions. As followers of Christ, we are called to live a life of professing and sharing our beliefs in the Lord with others in the world that have chosen not to believe or have never had the opportunity to hear.

I have been a believer for 11 years and in this time I have encountered many who dismissed me or even ignored me because they were not interested in hearing about Christ. There have also been those who engaged me in what I'll call "vigorous discussion" about my beliefs and my reason for believing in Christ.

In Matthew 10:18, the apostles are warned that they will encounter trials in human courts, or even bodily harm, because they have chosen to follow Christ. It has been my observation that in this day and age, believers, "myself included," shy away from openly sharing Christ with all we encounter in our daily routines. At work/school some of our co-workers/classmates don't know anything about us other than we come to work/school on time and work diligently. Instead of keeping quiet and keeping the truth to ourselves, we should openly share our Christ centered experiences with our co-workers/classmates and they will surely see that our character is different and our attitudes are pleasant because we are a different and peculiar people. This in itself will be a positive motivator for them to want to know more about us and the Lord we serve.

Be bold and brave dear sister and brother, for the Lord has equipped you with tools for the battle through His word and He is sure to stand by you at all times and especially when trouble comes. He has promised to send His spirit to speak through you, so continue to go out into the world and share His Word with those who will listen. Then stand and see the salvation of the Lord.

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Discussion Questions

1. Examine your life. Are you living it like you were called to live it? If not, what more can you do to reach those who you encounter on a daily basis at work/school? If so, pray that the Lord continues to show you more ways to fulfill His purpose for your life.

2. What has caused you reservations with witnessing to non-believers and how can you overcome them?

Thank you for this opportunity and my prayer is that this New Year be filled with more boldness in your Christian walk and more wonderful experiences with our heavenly Father. Be blessed abundantly in Jesus name.

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