Inspired Words
This is the first article by new All4God contributor Andrew McCready, who will now be doing regular articles
4 Discouraged Christian Witness
Grrrrrr I’m angry; actually over that feeling I’m more discouraged I was in work today, and I bought a Bible for the staffroom in hope staff members fumble upon it and start reading something that will challenge there view on the way they live their life! However, one staff member who came a cross it today impolitely told me no-one is going to read it- and called me strange for buying it! Hmmm? Since August till now I have been trying to persuade work colleagues to believe in the gospel (obliviously I understand only the Holy Spirit can convict and save in-the-end, but as Christians we are to influence our life-changing belief)! In order to be influential I’ve been filling the staff room with Gospel leaflets, been persistently bringing up conversations that might challenge them to choose Christian faith, trying to be a living example in the way I talk and act round them, praying for change, been inviting them to church/youth fellowship constantly –unfortunately each time declined!
The thing is we can’t convince someone who doesn’t want to be convinced! They have to come to point in their lives when they are willing and open to listen and believe-for themselves! I’m reminded of the story of Moses and Pharaoh- it makes me feel better! As nothing could convince Pharaoh that Moses represented the one true God –not plagues, not miracles, not event the death of Egypt’s firstborn. If this kind of stuff couldn’t move Pharaoh to believe in God, then I’m not surprised that Christians today have trouble convincing people about God!
Does this mean we should give up witnessing?
NO, never give up as the bible says;
‘So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone-especially to those in the family of faith.’ Galatians ch6 v9-10 (NLT)
Biblical References
We are called to spread the gospel- Mark Ch 16 v15
We are called to be witnesses- 1 Corinthians Ch 8 v 22-23
Moses- Pharaoh Story- Exodus Chapters 4 -12