Every sincere Christian wants to make an impact, make a real difference in the world. The question you often hear is “how?”. Some Christians are so busy maintaining friendships with their old worldly friends that they have compromised their faith. Not wanting to appear “holier than thou” they continue to participate in pre-Christian activities. No impact can be made because the new faith has made no difference in lifestyle.
Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt has become tasteless, it has become good for nothing anymore.” (Matthew 5:13) If your friend cannot see evidence of what Christianity has done in changing you for the better, they don’t think they need it.
It is the opposite mistake of those who become Christians and have nothing to do with their old friends. Christians who spend all their time with other Christians will have no opportunity to advertise effectively their changed lives.
Impact comes through contact. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:15) Your old friends who don’t know the truth need you and the new people you meet should soon see and hear your reason for living.
Impact people sometimes feel like some kind of circus balancing act. Needing to grow in faith by fellowshipping with other Christians must be maintained through public worship and Bible study. Loving old friends and remembering their doubts and fears demand that they not be forgotten. You make a difference by being lovingly different. Jesus said, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good work and glorify your father who is in Heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
Your old friends may not understand your new lifestyle but you should do your best to explain it. Don’t waste time condemning them. Use the time to explain the “new” you.
“Lord, we really want to share our new life with our old friends but
we often stumble in doing it. Help us to be lovingly brave! Amen”
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment