My Dear Friends in Christ,
(please don't be confused this is John speaking and not April)

As I read this scripture, I have to confess I can't count the times I would rather talk about politics, the economy, world news, weather, or even sports (and I don't watch sports anymore) instead of Jesus. My desire was to be somewhat politically correct, but not totally, and a fine example of a Christian. I realized that I was, well kind of embarrassed/ashamed, and I realized that this is not good (see the verse above)! Do you do the same as I do or am I the only on that does this?

Now, when I find myself talking to someone I bring Jesus into the conversation.  If possible, I witness of my need for a Savior and what He can do in their lives. Now, I must admit this hasn't been easy. Many Americans consider themselves to be Christians whether they are or not. Many times you have to ask detailed questions like: Are you born again, who does your salvation rest on, how do you know you are saved, etc.? Many times they will change the subject, sometimes they will listen, and occasionally they will confess the need for a Savior.

I am convinced, the closer I get to Jesus, the more I realize that whenever I meet a Christian or non-Christian, that I am to bring Jesus into the conversation, and if they are unsaved, to look for the opportunity to witness to them. Is this what you do? Beloved that is our calling, Matt 28:19 says, "Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations..."  Even though we are not missionaries in Africa, we are missionaries in our own home town and wherever we travel. We are to be the shinning examples in the world (we should strive to show in our lives that we trust in Him for everything) and we should not lose the opportunity to talk about Jesus, talk about our faith, and to even pray for someone. Pray to God for the opportunities and that He would open your eyes to see them and that He will help you to be brave enough to act upon them. Opportunities will come up, believe me.

This encouragement adds on to the last two I have done. I didn't do this on purpose, so I can't help but think this is something God is doing in my life. A summary of those encouragements:

     1-Everyday I must strive to grow closer to the Lord
     2-Time is short and I must tell my friends and relatives the Good News as soon as possible
     3-I must tell everyone of the Good News.

I can't help but think this is God's desire for every Christian. I was comfortable being a background Christian, but now I realize God truly wants me and every Christian in the foreground. Beloved is this your desire, are you fearful to where this will lead, pray that God take that fear away and makes this plan your very desire.

Have a joyous day in our Lord!
john
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The above message is sent to you as an encouragement.  Please pass this on to friends and family.  To add yourself or a loved one to the mailing list reply to  [email protected]  Subject:  "add to"  (or to be removed indicate  "remove")
 
Encouragement From The Heart Website updated March 17, 2000 (note: web address changed).
http://www.geocities.com/correiaville/encourag.html   there's a new page, "The Master's Garden" stop by and check it out!

Scripture references (unless noted otherwise): The Open Bible, New American Standard
copyright The Lockman Foundation 1960, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977
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