It's been said, "It's not what you know, it's who you know." I suppose that's true. It's certainly true for change-makers.
The greatest change we can bring our world is to introduce people to Jesus, but many find it hard to get started. It seems overwhelming. What will people think? I don't want to be rude. I don't want to be lumped into the same camp as "Christians" who are mean, judgmental, and hypocritical. Maybe I'll just live quietly and wait for someone to ask me about Jesus.
While it's possible God might lead someone to ask you about him without your ever having said anything, it's fairly unlikely. The biblical precedent is for believers to open their mouths and tell other people about Jesus. It's a risk, but it's well worth it.
Let me give you a few ways to dip your toe in the water that aren't too scary.
First, make a list of all the people you know who don't have a relationship with Jesus. It really does start with who you know. God has brought you into relationship with these specific people for a purpose. You have access to their lives in ways that other people don't. If your list is especially large, start with four or five people that you feel most comfortable with.
Second, pray specifically for each person. I'd suggest you make three requests of God: That he would bless each person, that he would use that blessing to open their hearts to him, and that he would give you insight into what needs, interests, and desires they have that intersect with his love for them.
Third, watch for God to work. Pay attention to the conversations and interaction you have with each person. God will open opportunities for you to share Jesus' love for them. Over time, he'll provide moments when you can talk about your own faith. He'll give you reasons to encourage them that you are praying, to talk about what God is doing in your life. Step into these, but don't worry if, in retrospect, you miss some. If you're willing, God will bring more opportunities around. Just keep praying and watching.
Fourth, don't give up. Be consistent to watch and pray. God works on his own timing. It may be weeks or months before you see God moving, but he will move.
I'd love to hear what you experience as you step out in faith as a change-maker, humbly, lovingly, asking God to move in your life and the lives of those you love. Drop a letter to the editor below and I'll pray with you. Don't worry, I won't publish it without your permission! I thank God in advance for how he will use each of us to accomplish his mission on earth.
In lieu of comments, The Change-Maker receives and periodically publishes letters to the editor. If you'd like to submit one, please click here. We look forward to reading your feedback. Thank you.