Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Romans 12:15
A Tool for Evangelism
I was talking to a work friend and I had planned to encourage her with the Word of God, see where she was spiritually, and try to win her over to Jesus, but there was a problem. Her father had just passed away and he was only in his late fifties.
She was holding her composure fairly well, but from what she told me I could tell she was torn up inside. She and her father had a very close relationship and did everything together. I had to switch from being “evangelist Ryan” to just being an active listener (well, not really and I’ll tell you why in a moment) so that I could show that I actually cared.
When a person is dealing with grief from the loss of a loved one, there just isn’t much you can say to take away that initial hurt. This is part of the reason why the scripture says, “…mourn with those who mourn.” There is a time for joy and a time for sorrow (read Ecclesiastes 3). There is a time for everything that doesn’t involve sin.
People appreciate it when you take the time to listen and understand what they’re going through instead of shooting bullets of scripture at them before you’ve even gotten the whole story. Sometimes that can actually make things worse. When you listen it makes someone more willing to hear you when you talk to them about Jesus. I’ve come to learn that this is actually an important tool in evangelism (this is what I meant earlier). It’s also called people skills.
What About You?
Maybe you’re going through it right now. Once you actually build yourself up to talk about what you’re going through, sometimes you just need an ear to vent through. Once you feel a sense of relief, you might leave room for advice. Sometimes just talking through your situation with a good friend or like-minded Christian might open your eyes to a new perspective. Even if you have nobody to run to, run to Jesus. He has given us His Holy Spirit to be our counselor.
Grief, no matter what level it is, can help a person honestly reflect on their life and will bring even the most godless person to the closest place they have ever been with God. Most people don’t cry out to God until something bad happens. Nevertheless, no matter what it is you should always pray about it.
Rejoice
The easier one to do is to, “Rejoice with those who rejoice…” As Christians, we are actually commanded to rejoice, even when things take a turn for the worst (Philippians 4:4). Rejoicing lifts the spirit of all those who participate. If you support others in their accomplishments, or simply show that you care that they’re in a good place in their life, then usually you will receive that same support, if you surround yourself with genuine believers.
I know that this scripture is intended for Christians, but this rule can open up the door of someone’s heart to the gospel. I’ve experienced it personally. Ask God for wisdom and understanding. James 1:5 tells us that God will freely give it to you. I ask Him every day.
Blessed are those who find wisdom,
Proverbs 3:13
those who gain understanding
Sometimes your part of God’s will can be easier than you think, and sometimes the solution to your problem is simpler than you think.
Salvation Plan
Today, if you have not received Salvation or you would like to rededicate your life back to Christ, say this prayer:
God, I know that I am a sinner. Right now, Lord, I turn from my sins, and I ask you to forgive me. Jesus, I believe that you died on the cross and rose from the grave, for me. I open my heart and life for You to come in, and I receive You as my Lord and Savior. Thank You, God for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read the Book of John in the Bible. Find out who Christ is, and how He loves you, yes you!
Come back and read through our Live Inspired articles, videos, and Today’s Devotions, to gain wisdom and insight into God’s Word. It is a guide to you as you read His Word, the Bible.
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Love,
Randomnestfamily
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