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When you accepted the Master’s call, did you realize that you would never be asked to serve Him – in your own strength? Christian discipleship comes with that wonderful spiritual promise. The Apostle Paul explained that the Lord will establish us for His service. Few in history could testify concerning this with as much knowledge as God’s courageous apostle to the Gentiles. With his many experiences in mind, let’s stop to think about what he wrote to the early church in Thessalonica,
“the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.” (2 Thessalonians 3:3) This timeless statement was made for our encouragement!
As redeemed Christians, we, like those in Thessalonica, are now privileged to live eternally as members of God’s family. The Bible says, “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.” (John 10:28-29) This security is the direct result of God’s redeeming power! Pause to quietly meditate again. Think about His timeless promise “…I will never leave you or forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5) This definitely means that we will never serve Him alone.
Today, as one of the Lord’s 21st Century disciples, consider these questions – “How faithfully am I pursuing God’s disciple-making purpose for my life?” “Where do I stand as His witness?” “How seriously do I want to – obey Him?” The Bible assures us that, “We will know that we have come to know Him if we obey His commands.” (1 John 2:3) It is the profound assurance produced by our own personal obedience – that develops the courage to speak to others with confidence. The Bible says,
[blockquote3]”…Do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given to you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” (Mark 13:11b)[/blockquote3]
God’s timing is perfect, and His provision is complete. This is why any anxiety about witnessing is totally meaningless! Never once have we been asked to venture out to witness on our own. The Bible explains – “For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to do His good pleasure.” (Phil 2:13) Empowering us to speak about the Messiah’s first coming and His promised return is the central purpose of the Holy Spirit’s ministry. He wants to continually communicate God’s love through us. We are called to explain life’s intended purpose and our Creator’s amazing offer of eternal life! Heaven’s message of grace and forgivenessmust be proclaimed in every nation before – our Lord’s return (Matthew 24:14). As Christian witnesses, across our lifetime we are simply called to replicate our Father’s divine example. He personally witnessed saying, “…this is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17) We can do no less as our Lord Jesus’ disciples.
[blockquote3]Heaven’s Savior confirmed His Father’s testimony by saying, “And the Father who sent Me has Himself testified concerning Me.” (John 5:37)[/blockquote3]
As you pause to quietly consider our Father’s example, consider the great potential and God’s intended plan for your – faith. It was designed to endure and – be passed on! With this in mind, how consistently are you asking for the privilege of sharing your faith in Christ? If you are already actively witnessing then you can be certain of this – when even one repentant seeker meets the Savior then, “there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God.” (Luke 15:10) Each morning of every week as you pray for the opportunity to witness, be prepared to enjoy the Lord’s “Yes!” He already knows that you love Him and He already knows that you want to serve Him, so only one question remains: “Are you ready for that spiritual adventure?” Just say “Yes” in your heart – if that’s your spontaneous desire. The Lord will hear and begin preparing you to effectively reach others for Christ. From today forward, as His disciple – make courage be your chosen lifestyle!
By Billie Hanks Jr.
