One of the simplest ways to influence people toward Christ is to treat others as Christ would.
Being kind and forgiving and morally pure is what demonstrates faith far more than being a verse-quoting machine with a walk that doesn’t match the talk.
I actually believe that we Christians sometimes miss out on huge opportunities for influence because we errantly think people are impressed more by our brainpower than by our serve-power.
Who prompts you more toward Christlike living? The braniac who talks theological circles around others? Or the humble, biblically solid believer who resolutely serves, gives without reservation and explains in a quiet fashion why his or her visible faith is an overflow of intimacy with God?
Like you, I want to lead more people into a saving relationship with Christ. Why? Because I am convinced that their lives will be better in this world and the next.
In view of a passage in today’s devotional reading, it is vital that I imitate Christ in how I treat others.
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35)
Please make it your practice to show genuine love to every person at your congregation’s worship service or small-group learning event.
Don’t give people the cold shoulder.
Don’t miss out on the opportunities to greet visitors or infrequently attending members.
Seek them out.
Love them as if they were your best buddies who grew up in the congregation with you.
It’s not just those people who will appreciate the love you show.
Others watching you from a distance will see that you really are a disciple who thinks beyond himself or herself.
Even when it takes a kevlar lip and the hide of a rhinoceros to be patient and forgive, we must do so.
For that’s what love does.
That’s what Jesus did for us. And if we’re His disciples, that’s the love we’ll show to others.
As always, I love you
Martin
