Friday night James* came over to our home for dinner before heading off to Youth Group.
After dinner I asked if he had heard my story about the Bible Study that met in the wrong place.
It happened during my third year of university. I went to the room where we ALWAYS met for the weekly Bible study. When the meeting started I learnt that the topic for the night was evangelism. My hands broke out in a cold sweat just hearing the topic.
Then there was a word of reprieve. Another group had booked the space that night and we would need to move.
Here was my chance to escape.
I told the leader that I was not sure I wanted to learn about sharing my faith.
Don said he understood my apprehension, but he had two questions for me.
The first was simple: "Bob, does the Holy Spirit live in you?"
I had become a Christian the year before so I knew the answer was "yes".
Then Don opened his Bible and read Acts 1:8 -- 'You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses'.
Don then asked if I thought this passage was true.
That question put me in a very difficult spot. I had to decide between the truth of God's Word and my sweaty hands.
I chose to go to move with the group -- and I am so glad I did.
I told James* that I would like to help him take "baby steps", much like Don had helped me take. Learning to share our faith is much like learning to ride a bicycle. It takes practise and the first journeys may be a bit shakey.
I suggested that James* focus on three things over the coming month. Three things we can ALWAYS do:
- Respond to God's Love
- Pray for People
- Care for People
How about you? Are you ready for an adventure?
Will you respond to God's love and pray regularly for 3-5 people? Choose people you are likely to see at least every fortnight.
Will you look for ways to meet their practical needs? Maybe take them out for coffee, listen to how they are going, or give the a special treat.
I'll share some more ideas later, but in the meantime have you considered the MyFriends Lifestyle Training? During the training we will help you take 'baby steps' in helping to connect your friends to Jesus and other believers.