Day 3: Winsome Witness

There’s a responsibility in identifying as a Christian, as you are then boldly declaring that you are a follower of Jesus and inviting others to join you on the path.  If your daily behavior is an invitation others are reluctant to accept, you have become a stumbling block between Jesus and those who need him.   So it’s a good practice to evaluate the quality of your witness on a regular basis.  I heard a sermon preached by Pastor Brad Hubbard nearly six years ago that took root and has never stopped growing within me.  Today’s devotional is based on that sermon.


Winsome Witness


1. Have your own relationship with Jesus.


Every good thing stems from our personal connection to Jesus.  Our relationship with him is like our relationship with others - it requires tending and nurturing and time spent together to thrive and grow.


2. Live like that is actually true.


The way we live our lives is our witness.  Our beliefs and words can strengthen that witness if they are in congruence with how we live.  If our words and beliefs are at odds with how we live, it is always, always how we live our life that will serve as our witness, for good or for bad.


3. Do life with others.


We cannot be a witness for Jesus if we only ever spend time with other believers.  We must live daily life in this world, with all its inhabitants, to serve as a witness.


4. Love on others.


Just be loving.  Don’t ask philosophical, intellectual, or theological questions about how you should behave toward people.  Just love.


5. Be prepared to share the reason for your hope.


When everything above has charmed and surprised and taken root in others, and they are curious about why and how you live your life that way, be prepared to tell them.



Keep it Simple


It can be difficult sometimes to know the right things to do and we tend to make things more complex than they need to be.  I like this quote from The Chosen, Season 4, Episode 2.  It’s a conversation between Mathew and Gaius.


“You’re right, Gaius, I don’t know families very well and I complicate everything.  But my teacher; he makes life very simple.  Every morning I wake up, my ideas and fears are jumbled.  I feel overwhelmed with doubt and regret.  But I just pause for a moment and remember…I have only one thing to do today.  Follow Him.  The rest takes care of itself.”


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