June 24 ~ Luke 12:32
My little group of disciples, don't be afraid! Your Father wants to give you the kingdom.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A few years ago, a friend of ours ran for public office. My husband and I stood on street corners and waved at passersby, holding signs that encouraged them to vote for our friend. We were not afraid… we did not hide behind the signs. We boldly showed the world that we supported this man – and we encouraged others to join us. Let’s say someone offered you a huge sum of money just to spend one hour trying to convince a group of people to support something. For instance, let’s say you were offered a half a million dollars to get people to test drive a beautiful sports car… one you wouldn’t mind owning yourself. You’d do it, wouldn’t you?
Isn’t it interesting that we have so little trouble putting our name, face, and energy behind so many people and things, but when it comes to claiming – and sharing the love of Jesus, we can’t – or won’t – do this. Even though we know that to share Jesus with others is part and parcel of our promise of spending eternity in heaven with Him, we often consider the “cost” too high. People won’t like us… we’ll be mocked or ostracized or criticized. We’ll lose business, or we won’t get the date with the person we like, or our family will disown us. The excuses are a dime a dozen.
The bottom line is, we are operating out of fear, and we are allowing Satan to control us… because HE is the agent of fear, not God. We are so afraid of what others might think or say about us that we become paralyzed in our faith. We are afraid to visit a friend or loved one in jail or prison… we’re afraid to walk away from a party where improper behaviors are occurring… we’re scared to death to tell someone we are praying for them and believing for a good outcome in their situation. We have been offered, literally, the keys to God’s kingdom, and we turn our backs and cower in the corner and say, “But I’m afraid.”
It’s high time we get up and get going! It’s time to step up to the plate, claim our place as heirs to the throne of the Most High God, and expect Him to guide us as we share His Good News with others. If we can stand on a street corner and campaign for a friend – or in some cases, someone we barely know - surely we can “campaign” for Jesus for a little corner of heaven. Where do you stand today?
©2010 Debbie Robus
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