No Fear
READ: Jeremiah 11:18-20
When was the last time you told someone about your Savior? Or, can't you remember that far back? Unfortunately, most Christians find themselves "dimming their lights" when around non-Christians. Why? Well, as we all know, the most common reason is fear: What will he say? Will he think I'm a religious fanatic? Will he hate me for trying to do what seems to him as forcing my religion down his throat?
Fear, when experienced as the "fear of the Lord" can be very good. Fear of punishment can also be good by discouraging wrong-doing. Being afraid of sharing the Good News of our Savior, Jesus Christ, is unnecessary. God says through Jeremiah that we don't have to be afraid. In Jeremiah 11:18-20, Jeremiah asks God to take vengeance on those who persecute him for preaching in God's name. God grants his request. This doesn't mean that we should pray to God, asking him to harm our enemies. We are to love our neighbors as ourselves. However, we should ask God to prevent any hardships that could occur when talking to others about Him. God also tells us that if we believe and are baptized, we will be saved. We should want all people to have this same assurance of salvation through Christ Jesus.
So, the next time you have the opportunity to talk to a non-Christian about your salvation, just say a prayer and have NO FEAR!
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: Why does God want us to tell others about Jesus? How should we react when we are ridiculed for talking about Jesus?
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Pray for the strength to talk to others about your forgiveness and Jesus Christ. Pray for all of the people who daily witness their faith to others.