Good-bye Guilt Trip
"Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful."
-1 Corinthians 4:2-
Further Readings: 1 Corinthians 4:1-5
Many believers feel that all evangelism is a guilt trip, and when they do share Christ, it's because they feel like they have to, not because they want to. Evangelism isn't exciting. It's a headache.
Why? No doubt there are several reasons, but one would definitely be the prevailing notion that God holds us responsible for fruit. That is, if we share the Saviour with the lost and they don't trust Him, God is disappointed in us.
Wait a minute! 1 Corinthians 4:2 doesn't say, "moreover it is required in stewards that one be found fruitful." instead, it says it required that one be found faithful. That was Paul's own testimony as the Corinthians were quick to judge both his actions and his motives. In evangelism, that takes the burden from our shoulders and puts it on His. We just have to be faithful in bringing Christ to them. It's God's timing and will to bring them to Christ.
What a freeing thought in evangelism! We can enjoy the experience, become one person wiser every time we do it, learn more about God's character and recognize that the results are in His hands. If we share the Gospel and the person doesn't see his need, we have been faithful to serve our Lord. He asks us to be faithful in sharing the gospel in fullness.
To Meditate:
How has your attitude towards evangelism been? Have you been faithfully bringing Christ to the people around you?
Pray for:
1. God to help you keep the right focus in evangelism
2. To be reminded that you are to bring Christ to the lost, and leaving it to Him to bring the lost to Christ.
3. Faithfulness in evangelism for God and not to allow the devil to discourage us to inaction.
Fallen behind? Its OK!
If you are a little behind in your 30in30 tracts, ask (and accept!) His forgiveness and continue sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. After all, how will they believe they can be forgiven if you don't even believe God will forgive you? (see 1 John 1:9)
