Nov 3 Devotion: Your Life, Your Witness

18).  And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and earth.  19).  Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost;  20).  Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen

                               MATTHEW 28:18-20 (KJV)

The Christian life is an active life—one given over to working, serving, sharing, and loving. It’s tempting to think that being a believer mostly means showing up for church each week and putting something in the offering plate. Those are good habits. But Jesus’ final charge to His disciples encompassed far more. 

Notice, in verse 19, He doesn’t say “convert” or “recruit” but “make” disciples. A disciple is someone who walks alongside, watches, learns, and slowly becomes like the teacher. That kind of formation doesn’t happen automatically. It takes place over meals and loving conversations, through friendships and seasons, as faith becomes visible in how we live.

This takes pressure off. To have a kingdom impact, you don’t have to quit your job to become a missionary, and you don’t have to convince your neighbors with a gospel presentation.

Simply notice the people God has put in your life and live in a way that shows honesty, love, and genuine interest in them. Then, when questions come, answer them with gentleness (See 1 Peter 3:15).

Most Christians have been influenced by people they already knew and trusted, who showed love before ever sharing their faith in Jesus. That’s the quiet, lifelong work Christ has given us.

-IBC