witnessing – Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Our Greatest Purpose in Life – Video Short

Growing In Grace

Our Daily Walk with Christ Devotional June 17, 2024

“…but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.” —2 Peter 3:18

“Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them…” (Romans 12:6). “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another…” (1 Peter 4:10).

“Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up…” —Ephesians 4:11-12

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” —Matthew 28:19-20

From studying the Scriptures on growing in grace, God tells us He has equipped all believers to use our spiritual gifts to edify [build up] the body of Christ. We easily use our spiritual gifts to fulfill Inreach efforts [within the church], yet, most members avoid using their gifts for Outreach community witnessing. Reminding ourselves that God gave us our spiritual gifts and talents clarifies that God will instruct us on how to use them for His honor and glory.

Face-to-face witnessing will always be the most effective way to witness and is the only activity that completely fulfills Jesus’ command to “Go” and make disciples. I can write countless inspirational devotionals, publish them, and pray for the readers to receive a blessing, still, my website does not replace Jesus’ command to witness in my neighborhood or when I am in the community performing the routine activities of life or traveling.

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.” —Revelation 22:12

Many are longing to grow in grace; they pray over the matter, and are surprised that their prayers are not answered. The Master has given them a work to do whereby they shall grow…Are they seeking to save souls for whom Christ died? Spiritual growth depends upon giving to others the light that God has given to you. You are to put forth your best thoughts in active labor to do good…in your family, in your church, and in your neighborhood. EGW, The Divine Prescription

“So they said, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.’ ” —Acts 16:31

Witnessing is telling others that Jesus loves us and saves us from sin. Whether we utilize technology or seize the countless opportunities in social settings, shopping, or walking in the park, we can always tell everyone “Jesus loves you.” Witnessing is the work for which our reward of Revelation 22:12 is based. Our faith in the saving power of Christ, our Redeemer propels us to tell others that Jesus saves and the Holy Spirit will complete our efforts.

Last week, I began watching a series by Voice of the Martyrs, The Torchbearers who were men and women of God who witnessed, passed out religious tracts, and remained faithful despite severe persecution. Last night the Holy Spirit reminded me that I had religious tracts on the healthy benefits of drinking water which transitions the reader into the benefits of drinking “The Living Water.”

This morning I had a scheduled delivery and was prepared to give the tract with life-changing words to the driver. As I handed the tract to her, I observed the weary face of a young woman who appeared to be beaten down by the vicissitudes of life. She had the dark bruises of physical abuse around her right eye. When I gave her the tract she smiled, and said, thank you, which filled my heart with joy. My only response was, “Enjoy your day.”

As I closed the door, I whispered a prayer that Jesus would wrap His loving arms around her and give her the courage to accept Him as her Savior and to walk away from the abusive relationship. This morning the Holy Spirit instructed me not to use spoken words to witness after giving her the tract. Everything she needs to know about accepting Christ is written in the tract and the Holy Spirit will speak to her heart.

Although Mark 13:11 is specific to persecution, our witnessing must be guided by the Holy Spirit. “This verse means not to worry or plan what to say beforehand, but to speak whatever is given in that moment because it is the Holy Spirit speaking, not you.”

We do not know every person’s needs, so we pray for the Holy Spirit to give us wisdom and guidance in approaching them and the right words to speak. The immense joy I feel from seeing the young woman’s smiling face helps me realize that I have great work to do for Jesus and I am humbled that God uses a sinner saved by grace to further His work.

Words of Life Ministry Excerpt on “Paul: A True and Effective Witness

Acts chapter 26: “In verse 22 the apostle tells us that he was constantly witnessing both to small and great. Wherever he went he talked to others about his Lord; whether his audience consisted of one or many, rich or poor, young or old, educated or illiterate, Jews or Gentiles, kings or commoners, soldiers or sailors – always, in every place, he was an effective witness.”

“See him at work in the synagogue (Acts 13:5); at the riverside (Acts 16:13); in prison (Acts 16:25-32); in the market-place (Acts 17:17); going from house to house (Acts 20:20); at home (Acts 28:30-31); and in the palace (Philippians 1:12-13).”

“Everyone whom Paul met was a soul for whom Christ died and was therefore a potential Christian. Have we this vision? An effective witness has a passion for souls and he is willing to adapt himself that he might ‘by all possible means save some.’ “

“So they said, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.’ ” —Acts 16:31

I appeal to all Christian believers to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to impart the wisdom to develop a two-sided Bible-based tract with Acts 16:31 as the focus. Who will tell them? We will! It’s time to return to the old-school methods of face-to-face witnessing. Like Christ, we seek God’s will and actively fulfill His Divine plans by being foot soldiers in God’s Army.

Our salvation, spiritual growth, and transformation depend on our willingness to surrender and obey God’s commands. To grow in grace requires immense love and devotion to Jesus Christ, letting go of our desires, and walking off the beaten path to tell the neglected, “Jesus loves you.”

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ ” — Matthew 25:40, NIV

Lord, we desire to do Your will. We ask that you reveal opportunities to witness Your love and saving power, to give hope, and to be a beacon of light to those suffering from sin’s plight in this dark world. In Jesus’ Righteous Name, we pray, Amen.

Yes! Our Heavenly Father Cares

Our Daily Walk with Christ Devotional – February 15, 2024

“Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted.” —Matthew 5:4

We can quote Scriptures to those who are hurting, but Jesus in His earthly life had an up close and personal ministry of encouragement and healing. The most effective way to witness our Heavenly Father’s love, grace, and mercies is through our personal testimonies. Did God heal you from an illness or provide for you and your family when you were laid off from your job? Someone who is feeling hopeless needs to know that Jesus cares.

“Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. ‘ ” —Matthew 11:28

We live in a world of uncertainties. Many feel as if they are carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. Those who are discouraged need to know that although God sits on high, He is actively involved in our lives when we choose to include Him. Teach someone the simple but powerful prayer, God, I need your help. We have been appointed the spiritual assignment of sharing God’s love, I have some great news for you, our Heavenly Father cares, and you never have to face your burdens alone!

If we pay attention, we can see weariness on the strangers’ faces. Tell someone today, tomorrow, and for the rest of your life that Jesus loves you, have a blessed day. If the person is receptive, ask if you can pray with them. It is the unplanned or impromptu conversations where the Holy Spirit does His greatest work. Not only are we blessed, but the Holy Spirit touches the person’s heart and gives them peace. Can you imagine feeling so overwhelmed that you are ready to give up and someone prays for you?

“Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” —Jeremiah 32:27

Love is a rare and precious commodity. It’s important to share with others, in person or on social media, that we have a loving Savior who is always ready to help us with life’s challenges. Sharing our testimonies reinforces our faith in God. Witnessing Christ’s love has its benefits, our faith grows, and the Holy Spirit strengthens us. When adversity comes knocking on our door, instead of feeling discouraged, we possess unwavering faith.

Experiential knowledge of God’s love and His promises to always provide fills our hearts with confidence and courage despite our tribulations. As we reflect on our lives and the many victories that God has given to us, we cannot keep His amazing love to ourselves. Every day comfort someone by telling them that our Heavenly Father cares. Truly God is love!

“…Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior…” —Isaiah 43:1-3

Lord, we pray for the holy boldness to witness your love to those who are hurting and hopeless. In Jesus’ Holy Name, Amen.

The Life-Giving Message of Jesus Saves

Sabbath Devotional, October 14, 2023

If every believer would witness to one person a day, we would fulfill Jesus’ command to “Go.” Telling our personal testimony of how Jesus saved us is the most effective method of witnessing to others. When we give our hearts to Christ which requires faith, He cleanses us from all of the unrighteousness of sin and makes us a new person. We think, speak, and act differently because we are covered with His righteousness and the Holy Spirit abides within us.

“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’ ” —Matthew 28:18-20

The Change in the Atmosphere, part 2, The Apostle Paul

For the past week, I have been studying the life of the Apostle Paul. The conversion of Saul, a murderer of Christians, to a devout and faithful disciple is evident throughout the 14 books in the New Testament. In his Second Letter to Timothy, Paul was fully aware that the end of his life was near. Paul’s imprisonment was unjust, but the Roman leaders believed that Christianity would phase out with Paul, the agitator incarcerated. The message of a Savior, Jesus Christ, opposed the ancient Roman pagan belief system. Still, their main concern was the impact on the possibility of decreased financial gifts.

The Roman Empire was a primarily polytheistic civilization, which meant that people recognized and worshiped multiple gods and goddesses. Despite monotheistic religions within the empire, such as Judaism and early Christianity, Romans honored the presence of numerous deities. Jul 6, 2018, https://www.nationalgeographic.org/article/gods-and-goddesses-ancient-rome/#:~:text=The%20Roman%20Empire%20was%20a,Christianity%2C%20Romans%20honored%20multiple%20deities.

But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. 2 Timothy 4:5 NLT

Paul’s only offense: God designated Paul to preach the gospel to the Gentiles who believed in gods and goddesses. Financial offerings were given by the people, which sustained the greed of the governing leaders. Even so, Christianity grew in leaps and bounds due to the continual witnessing by the Apostle in heavy chains. While imprisoned, he endured extreme suffering for many years. Yet, Paul’s abounding faith was an example of Jesus’ suffering, leading to many Roman guards’ acceptance of Jesus Christ. Bible scholars estimate his age to be between 60-68 at the time of death. The wicked Emperor Nero was responsible for the execution by the beheading of God’s faithful Apostle.

As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:6-8

The Apostle Paul clearly reveals that immortality is not received at the time of a person’s death. Yet, many believers hold on to the false concept that the person is either in heaven or burning in hell at death. Jesus answered, “You are mistaken because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.” Matthew 22:29.

Jesus’ body was in Joseph’s tomb when He was resurrected. Angels were sent from heaven to roll back the heavy stone. Although the Jewish leaders spread the false news that the disciples had stolen His body, the guards witnessed the event.

Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him, “Rabboni!” (which is to say, Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.'” Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord and that He had spoken these things to her. John 20:16-18

The Holy Spirit is truth. The Human Effort of praying for the discernment and guidance from the Holy Spirit is vital to our belief in the scriptures, spiritual growth, perseverance, and endurance. We must decide to believe the biblical truth or to embrace the twisted concepts of our greatest Deceiver. It is a conscious decision to faithfully obey God by asking that His will be done in our lives. Turning our eyes upon Jesus requires wholehearted commitment. We have a Spiritual Team ready 24/7 to assist us in our journey on the Path of Righteousness. Through Christ, we can live holy and righteous lives, witnessing to others with confidence that we have fought the good fight, just as the Apostle Paul.

Prayer: God, we thank you for salvation. Please reveal the method of how we can witness the Good News of Jesus Christ to others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson, Faithful Fishers Ministry