I find it interesting to look back on the very few experiences I have had with sharing my faith with non-believers. One of the trends that I see I have set for myself is that, in talking about Jesus, there is always this sense of “oh my goodness, I better say this right, say it clearly, say it quickly, say it NOW!” I put so much pressure on myself to engage in what seems to be an end-all conversation that will result in the deciding of someone’s eternal destination, when really, as I have begun to learn, it is a process that can take many years.
While discussing missional tactics, one of my classmates spoke up and said, “I think the most counter-cultural thing we can do is to not have a quota. There is no need to rush into things with an agenda of all that needs to be accomplished. We need to take it slow, live life, build relationships gradually, and trust the Holy Spirit to do his thing.”
There is so much freedom in that simple statement. It is not up to us to save a certain number of souls—that job is for someone much more qualified. How about we let Jesus conquer death on the cross instead of trying to carry the sins of the world on our own shoulders? The job that we have been given is to love people and obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit. We are free from the burden Jesus willingly takes, so let us live life in joy and as a witness to the goodness He has done in us.
Lauren L
Jack, that’s a great quote! And it’s true.
People only get defensive if we try to change them by judging or convicting them of thier sin. I cannot change people, the only thing that I can do is love (and pray for) them, and in so doing, to hopefully introduce them to Christ.
Thank you! That is encouraging.
PS–it’s Lauren (come on, Brendan! work with me here!).
It’s so easy to get caught up in trying to save people. One time Billy Graham went to Bill Clinton’s house for dinner during his scandal and someone said, “how can you hang out with this man isn’t that immoral?” Billy Graham replied, “Well it’s God’s job to judge, the Holy Spirit’s job to convict, and my job to love and that is what I am here doing.” I come back to this quote all the time and remember oh yeah…God’s got this. It’s my job just to love.
Well put Laura… I appreciate the honesty and am encouraged by your words. Thanks for sharing.
Laura, I really appreciate this. It isn’t our job to carry the message to the lost; it’s our privilege to be filled with love and gratitude at Christ’s work, and to allow the Holy Spirit to reveal our life to those we come into contact with. Thank you for the reminder Laura.
I couldn’t agree more.