At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are reminded of the importance of sharing our faith with boldness and authenticity. The journey of faith is not just a personal endeavor but a communal mission to spread the love and truth of Jesus Christ. As we explore this calling, we recognize that sharing our faith can sometimes be daunting. However, we are encouraged to step out in faith, knowing that we are merely seed planters, and it is God who makes those seeds grow.
The Call to Boldness
In the early church, as Paul wrote to the Thessalonians, he encouraged them to be bold in their witness despite the challenges they faced. In 1 Thessalonians 2:2, Paul reflects on his own experience, saying, “But though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we had boldness in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the midst of much conflict.” This boldness is not rooted in our own strength but in the confidence we have in God and His message.
Sharing Our Story
Each of us has a unique story of how Jesus has transformed our lives. Sharing this story is a powerful way to connect with others and demonstrate the reality of the Gospel. As we engage in our young adult series, “How Not to Save the World,” we are reminded that our role is to plant seeds through our words and actions. We are not responsible for making those seeds grow; that is the work of the Holy Spirit.
Taking the Shot
The analogy of missing every shot or kick we don’t take resonates deeply with our mission to share the Gospel. Just as in sports, where taking the shot is essential to scoring, in our faith journey, stepping out and sharing Jesus with others is crucial. As the quote often attributed to Wayne Gretzky and popularized by Kobe Bryant goes, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” This truth applies to our faith as well. We cannot reach others for Jesus if we remain silent.
Overcoming Fear with Faith
It’s natural to feel hesitant or fearful when it comes to sharing our faith. However, we are reminded in 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” This verse encourages us to rely on the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to speak with boldness and love.
Conclusion: Planting Seeds of Faith
At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are committed to being bold witnesses for Christ. By sharing our stories and living out our faith with authenticity, we plant seeds that God will nurture and grow. Let us embrace the call to boldness, trusting that God will use our efforts to reach others with His love and truth. Together, we can make a difference, one conversation and one act of love at a time.
