Part 3
In the past couple of weeks, we’ve discussed the first six of the seven spiritual disciplines that can help you rely on God’s strength:
- Be a Person Who Talks with God
- Be a Bible Reader
- Be a Worshiper
- Be a Church Member
- Be a Person Who Serves Others
- Be a Generous Person
Today, we look at number seven:
Be active in sharing your faith.
Imagine something amazing just happened in your life—receiving a generous gift at Christmas, getting engaged, or finding out you’re expecting a baby. Wouldn’t you want to tell everyone the good news?
For most of us, the answer is an obvious yes. We typically don’t keep good news to ourselves. There’s something in us that needs to share the excitement with our friends and family.
But what about the greatest news of all—the Good News of Jesus?
Too often, we keep that to ourselves. Maybe we don’t fully understand its importance. Maybe we think it’s someone else’s job to share it. Or maybe we’re just afraid.
Whatever the reason, the truth is this: if you believe in Jesus, you’ve been given the responsibility to share Him with the world.
Jesus made this clear when he said: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20)
He commands YOU to “GO” because everyone needs Jesus. He didn’t hint at it or give a slight suggestion. He gave a command—which he has every right to do because he has “All authority.”
Why is it so important to share your faith?
First, sharing your faith strengthens you personally.
How does it make any sense to have the GOOD NEWS of Jesus and keep it to yourself? It doesn’t. An authentic faith is a shared faith.
When you share your faith, it builds your relationship with God and makes it real in your everyday life.
Second, the world becomes stronger when you share your faith.
The single greatest answer to the needs of the world is Jesus Christ. It’s not more food, clothes, or housing—although those things are important. The greatest need is the Good News of Jesus Christ. He is the hope of the world.
Finally, you become stronger when you obey Jesus’ command.
The command is simple to understand: “Go and make disciples.” Granted, it’s not always easy to do. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
The key is to start where you are. Who in your circle of influence are you sharing your faith with? Do you have a neighbor, coworker, or family member far from God? Start with them.
You might even say, “There’s no way they’ll become a follower of Jesus!” Don’t underestimate the power of the Good News of Jesus. It can soften the hardest heart and light up the darkest life.
Take a Moment to Reflect
Where is God asking you to start sharing your faith? Who in your life needs to hear the Good News?
Thinking about it might make you a little nervous but remember—sharing your faith makes you stronger. And in the process, you’ll be relying on God’s strength.
Click here to LISTEN to our latest message: iTunes – Google – Spotify
