For years I have witnessed to an extended family member about Christ, salvation and eternal life. My efforts are continually met with resistance, much eye-rolling and exaggerated negativity on her part. No matter how many prayers I pray – I can’t seem to penetrate her protective layer of cynicism when it comes to talking about the Lord.
There have been times I’ve wanted to simply walk away and stop trying to convert her. Other times I’ve wanted to “pray a whammy” on her, as one friend of mine likes to say — which entails asking God to rain down Sodom and Gomorrah-like hell fire on her to get her attention. I know neither of these situations are what God would have me to do and are very childish and immature. But hey – I am extremely human, and I occasionally get frustrated when God doesn’t seem to be “doing His part.”
Lately, I’ve been sensing God’s urging to simply stop forcing the issue and just … be. By that I mean, words have proven to be useless with this relative, so I just need to BE the hands and feet of Jesus.
When we encounter difficult people, sometimes what is needed is lending a helping hand rather than delivering a lecture. Going out of our way to be helpful, sending an encouraging note; picking up groceries when needed, dropping off a meal or gift card for dinner out, or a night of free babysitting … all are ACTIONS that can speak volumes to someone with a hardened heart towards Jesus.
It’s great to read the Bible daily, but how often do we DO what the Bible says? I heard a pastor recently say believers need to be VERB Christians rather than NOUN Christians. Translated that means – actions speak louder than words – especially when our words seem to fall on deaf ears.
I haven’t exactly perfected my VERB walk with Jesus yet – but I am letting Jesus know that I am still teachable and willing to learn new ways of DOING things.
How about YOU? Are YOU more of a NOUN Christian – someone who is a believer in name only? Or … are you a VERB Christian who wants to roll up your sleeves, get your hands and feet dirty and be a DOER of God’s Word? It’s never too late for us Old Dogs to learn new tricks!
“But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.” James 1:22
Blessings in Christ,
Kathy K.
