The Christian life is a road marked with great difficulties and sharing our faith is one such challenge for everyone. Just mentioning evangelism or witnessing makes us nervous and uneasy. It is something we cannot identify with or even imagine doing because of overwhelming fears of rejection, inadequacy, or embarrassment. Yet we are all called to glorify Christ through sharing our faith with others. I want to give you hope that you can be excited to know that God will begin to use you to sow seeds of the gospel!
First of all it is critical we have the right perspective on evangelism; it is completely God’s work, not ours. Too often I am far too focused on Kyle. I need to get my eyes off Kyle by seeing less of myself and more of God. I need to realize God is so much bigger than my inadequacies. He will change my heart. He will give me courage. He will speak through me. After listening to Moses’ excuses the Lord said, “Who made man’s mouth? Is it not I, the Lord? Now then go, and I, even I, will be with your mouth and teach you what you are to say.” God does not need great intellect, talent, or personality. He uses the foolish to shame the wise. All God needs is a willing spirit. He will work and multiply your gifts even as He did with the few loaves and two fish. Think less of yourself and more highly of God.
Secondly, take practical steps as you share the gospel. Begin by praying daily for God to change your heart: “Lord give me a burden for the lost.” Next remember Rome was not built in a day. We are not asking you to start off preaching at a crusade or street witnessing. Begin with what you can handle and allow God to build you up from there, whether it be praying for someone’s salvation, asking a person to church, or just handing them a gospel tract. If you do not see much fruit at first do not be discouraged. God has only called you to sow gospel seeds, not to make converts. In His time He will bring the harvest.
Lastly, minister out of the power and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses.” God has given you the Holy Spirit to empower you for ministry. Grow in sensitivity and discernment of the Holy Spirit and you will begin to see through people’s expressions how the Spirit is working in them.
Be patient and don’t be too hard on yourself. There have been many times I have wanted to share with someone but ended up walking right past them out of fear. Keep an open heart and soon you will lead your first person to Christ!
His grace alone,
Pastor Kyle