I was in a class where the teacher asked, "Which wing of an airplane is the most important?"

Now I have flown enough to know that they are all essential to flight.

Her answer: "The one that is missing".

When it comes to cross-cultural evangelism there are six habits which are essential to effectiveness.  All six.

I've already shared the first five with you. 

Now for the sixth, I invite you to travel back in time with me to my third year of university.  I've been a Christian for a year, going regularly to Bible studies to learn more about what is means to follow Jesus.

This night the topic is evangelism.  We get started on the study and then someone barges into the room to let us know that another group has booked the room. We will need to move somewhere else in 10 minutes.

I tell Don, the group leader, that I am not sure I want to continue with the study.  I'm an introvert and the idea of telling others about Jesus scares me.

Don stops and asks me three questions:

     1) Bob, are you a Christian? 

        Yes, Don, I became a Christian last year.

     2) Does the Holy Spirit live in you? 

         Yes, Don, he lives in all Christians.

  3) In Acts 1:8 it says that the Holy Spirit will give you power to witness.  Do you believe this?

 But Don, what about my sweaty hands?

Don was gracious and said he would understand if I did not continue with the study, but that I should think about God's promise. 

I don't remember how long I debated what to do, but I did join the study that night and every week after

Over the past 50 years God continually has continually called me to take steps of faith.  Moving into areas where I am not emotionally comfortable.  And each time I find that the Holy Spirit gives me the power I need.

What would you call this habit?  I call it "Walking in the Spirit" -- letting the Holy Spirit guide and empower me.

This video by Earl explains more about this habit.

Let's pray before I go:

"Lord Jesus, thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to direct and empower us.  Keep us senstive to HIs leading.  Keep us from fear. Allow us to radiate Your love to a world which is desperate for love, acceptance and hope.  Thank you that you have chosen to use us, as imperfect as we are.  We look forward to how your Holy Spirit will transform us and the people we meet.  Amen".

Next week: a summary of all six habits and an opportunity to download them all in one single document.

See you then.