In most of my adult life, I thought of witnessing as going out on a street corner or walking around the neighborhood and handing out tracks. I thought the witnessing role was for those in the church who were super holy, and I sure did not fall into that category. What I did not understand at the time, was that that was only a small part of witnessing.
Far too often, we think it’s the pastor’s, elders or bible worker’s role to witness. But I’m discovering that it’s all of our roles. We may think we are unqualified for the job, but I believe that’s exactly where God wants us. Feeling inadequate and unqualified for the role – this is where His best work is done. 2 Corinthians 12:9 states, “But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” When God shows us what we can do through Him, we can only give Him the glory.
Today, I want to share a personal testimony regarding witnessing. Many of you know that I write. That was never a calling I ever thought I had or wanted, if I were to be honest. I came up with many excuses why that job was not for me. But God would have none of my lame excuses. When my book was published two years ago, a very good girlfriend came and purchased a few copies. In passing she named out who she was getting them for – I knew her mom and sister, and asked me to sign one for a friend who was going through a difficult time.
Fast forward a few months when I went to this same friend’s home for a get together, when I walked into the room, this beautiful lady – called my name – but mispronounced it, so I knew she didn’t actually know me. She explained that our mutual friend had given her my book, and it had changed her life. WHAT????
We ended up sitting together and talking the whole time about things and life. I ran into her a few mornings later on the train platform – and it was on a morning that her spirit was heavy and she needed someone who understood. God chose me that morning. We parted with prayer.
She started going to church and got baptized a few months later. That was around last May. She got extremely sick in the fall and passed away two weeks ago. My heart is so sad as I try to understand – and to be honest, I don’t think I will. But I received this message from my spiritual mom from her good friend – God never plucks a flower until He knows it’s time. I’m guessing God knew she was ready.
I was simply obedient in writing the book, and later speaking and being transparent with her, not realizing what God was doing. I have discovered that this is what witnessing is: showing up authentically for others. Sharing a smile, a kind word as we never know what the person is going through. We can share literature, but if you can, build a relationship or rapport first. People will be more willing to listen. That lady only took the book from our mutual friend because they had a friendship. I likely wouldn’t have been able to reach her as well as we did not have that relationship.
The bible says in Colossians 4:6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Let us be gracious one to another, we never know who’s path God will set us on so that we can show His love at the moment that person needs it. I’m discovering, that is what witnessing and sharing the word is about.