Don't hide your light under a bushel! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. (Matthew 5:15-16 NLT).
Shortly after I received Christ as Savior, my wife and I went with Bob and Frances Lytle to lead worship at the Jesus Saves Rescue mission in San Francisco. Elaine played her accordion, and I gave my testimony. After several months, I was asked to bring the message. My first reactions were, "What could I say that would touch the hearts of the down and outers' that ventured into the mission?" How simple do I need to make the gospel message? Will they understand the words I use? Will they be sober enough to grasp the truth? All these questions flooded my mind as I hesitantly rose to speak. My voice quavered and my knees shook, but God enabled me to present the simple gospel truth. When the invitation was given a middle aged lady came forward weeping profusely. She knelt at the altar. I knelt beside her to counsel and pray with her. The alochol smell on her breath was enough to knock a horse out, but we wept together, and she prayed for God's forgiveness. In spite of all my doubts and fears God used his word to pierce her heart.
When Jesus sent out his twelve disciples, he warned them to be as shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. They were to expect opposition, ridicule, and lack of interest, but they had the assurance of two truths: (1) the Holy Spirit would speak through them, and (2) God's word would not return to him void.
As you go forth, remember, God goes before you paving the way. He gives you the message. He provides the supplies and abilities you'll need, and he will bring about the results. Go in faith believing that God can do the impossible, and he will bless you.
Thought for the Day: God is the potter, and we are his instruments of clay.
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