Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15, NASB)
It may have been some time ago that you last learned a new shot. I find that it is more common for me now that shots just fall out of use. I play infrequently enough that I may not get an 80-yard-bunker shot very often. So when I do, it can be just like the first time I’ve tried a brand new shot in real play: scary.
You may laugh over your poor efforts at first, but you’ll find good ways to say things.Many people find their experience in sharing their faith to produce a similar feeling of discomfort or anxiety. Just how do I do this? And when do I know for sure that I am ready?
The hidden truth, of course, is that many people you open a conversation with about the faith are just as nervous as you are! They want to know a few things (though most are afraid to ask): Do you really believe this stuff, or are you off your rocker? Is this a canned presentation, or do you really own it? And maybe most importantly: How long is this going to last? Put an unbeliever in a room with someone who has never shared their faith before and there’s fear and trembling all around.
So what does it take to reach out with the Gospel? Let’s consider three things:
– First, we do well to know the Word of God. When we rely on our own words, we can stumble our way along. But when we have Scripture memorized and marked, we can cling to the Lord’s exact phrasings and be confident in the truth they carry.
– Second, just as in golf, there’s great value in practice. Sit down with another believing friend who will ask you questions that an unbeliever might ask. You may laugh over your poor efforts at first, but between the two of you, you’ll find good ways to say things (in ways that come off your natural tongue, rather than sounding like you’re trying to be Billy Graham in a golf shirt).
– Third, step out in faith. The first time you try a new shot on the course, you’ve got to trust that you’re ready. When it comes to sharing your faith, though, your trust is in the Lord, that he will give you the right words for the right moment. You can do this, because he’s doing it in you!
—
Jeff Hopper
June 3, 2016
Copyright 2016 Links Players International
The Links Daily Devotional appears Monday-Friday at www.linksplayers.com.
OTHER DEVOTIONS IN THIS SERIES
Sharing Your Faith, Part 1
Sharing Your Faith, Part 3
Sharing Your Faith, Part 4
Sharing Your Faith, Part 5
Sharing Your Faith, Part 6
Sharing Your Faith, Part 7