When we are out of step or going the wrong way, we will not have peace. Peace is a way that God confirms his will in our lives. We can, at times, be in a great storm of adversity and yet be filled with peace. If you have made a decision or are doing something yet have no peace, then you need to pause and ask the Lord why. If you have no peace, then you may need to seek new direction. (Philippians 4:6-10)

Sometimes, we don’t understand why we have no peace, but the peace God gives transcends our minds and leads us in ways we may not comprehend. It is like an umpire who overrules all else and leads us in God’s way.

KEYS TO WITNESSING

The Lord instructed his disciples to share the Gospel with others whenever there were opportunities to do so. (Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:15, Matthew 22:9-10). This is not necessarily preaching at them but sharing with them when possible. We are not told to convert people; we are told to witness to them about Christ.

There are several ways in which we can witness. One is through our testimony. This is an excellent way to share what Christ has done for us, and because it is personal, it carries an enormous impact, especially if others see in us a life of faith. The greatest witness, that does not even need words, is the witness of a changed life. It is also by sowing seeds of love, gentleness and kindness. People respond to the fruit of the Spirit of God. It is not just our words but our lives that count. The fruit of God’s Love is the most powerful fruit to sow in someone’s life. (1 Corinthians 3:1-3, 13:1-13).

Seed is found in fruit, and when the fruit is eaten, the seed is too. It then lodges in people’s hearts and bears fruit, sometimes years later. We cannot force people to believe; we can only tell them about the Lord, and the rest is up to them. If we are sharing the fruits of his Spirit, then the Lord will water the seeds we plant and bring them to life.

Another way to witness is to use Scripture to create interest and impart truth. This is what Philip did when he spoke to a man who asked him what a certain Scripture meant. (Acts 8:30-35).

Yet another way is to pray for someone. If a person is sick, afraid or in sorrow, they will often accept a short prayer. Ask them first, and if they agree, then pray with respect, compassion and faith. God will use you to touch their hearts.

Finally, witnessing is not necessarily preaching a sermon or trying to explain the whole Bible at one time. It can be a simple word at the right time. “God Bless You” are three of the most powerful words we can say. They can change a heart.

If we sow good seed through a good life, then God will water it, even if it lies dormant for years. God’s Word is living and comes alive when he waters it. We will never know how we have impacted others until we stand before the Lord.

KEYS TO LEAD SOMEONE TO CHRIST

It is a privilege to help someone to receive Christ as Lord and Saviour. You do not have to be an ordained minister or have a degree in theology to do this. If you know Christ as Lord, you can help others to know him too. Neither do you have to use a lot of scriptures, sometimes less is better. By quoting too many, it can become confusing. However, scripture must be used to establish a decision and make it valid. People are not converted by our convictions but through faith in God and his Word. (1 Peter 1:23). Salvation is based on the incorruptible and enduring Word of God. God gives his Word, and we believe it.

Some key scriptures to help someone receive Jesus as Lord.

• All people have fallen short of God’s standards. (Romans 3:21-23-26).

• No one is righteous. (Romans 3:10).

• God gives us eternal life through Jesus Christ. (John 3:16-17).

• If we believe and receive Jesus we are born again and become God’s children. (John 1:12-13).

• Whoever confesses Jesus as Lord and calls on him will be saved. (Romans 10:9-10,13).

Join me as we conclude our journey through “A Life of Faith.”

Blog Series Nine: Promises for our Future