Romans 1:11
I want to see you and share with you the same blessings that God's Spirit has given me. Then you will grow stronger in your faith.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Have you watched some of the late-night infomercials that have become so popular recently? Usually there is a “host” and an “expert” who tout the virtues of the latest weight-loss program, kitchen gadget, vacuum cleaner, and more. There is often a legion of “ordinary people” who testify to the effectiveness of said program or product. And apparently, lots of people listen and believe what they hear, because this marketing ploy apparently works!
This verse from Paul does not represent an infomercial. He wants to extol the virtues and blessings of living for Jesus and having the Holy Spirit in his heart … but this is no gimmick. He is not offering false hope or a product that won’t deliver. When he promises that the Romans will grow stronger in their faith, he means it. And truly, his success at convincing them lies in how well he delivers the message and any “testimonials” he can garner from fellow believers.
How well are you “selling” your faith to others? Are you able to promote the Good News of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit in a way that makes others want to believe for themselves? Are you convincing with your demonstration and the way you conduct your own life? Can you share about the blessings that you have experienced and offer testimonials – your own and those of others? Do you live your life in a way that demonstrates for others a life of blessings and God’s abundant love? Do others look at you and say, “I want what he/she has!” (And I’m talking Spiritually here – not materially.)
We would probably do well to study an infomercial or two and see if we can figure out what makes them so compelling – and so successful – and apply that to our Christian witness. How well we reach others with the Gospel of Jesus and His love may very well depend on how convincing we are with our “delivery.” So I ask you today … how well are you sharing your story? How convincing is your witness? Do others see your life in Christ and want the same? Or do you need to polish your “presentation”?
©2010 Debbie Robus
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