“One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key to self-confidence is preparation.” (Tennis great, Arthur Ashe)
My point today has nothing to do with tennis or trophies, but with the need to be prepared – specifically to share our faith. Most Christians genuinely desire to share their faith with others, but many back down due to lack of confidence. And that’s why I liked the quote above, because humanly speaking, there’s no better way to build confidence than to prepare via practicing.
For example, once a week for years, I’ve joined the other members of our church’s worship team for mid-week rehearsal. We don’t practice so that we can put on a better “performance” on Sunday. No, we practice to become so familiar with the mechanics of the songs that come Sunday morning, they’re second-nature to us. That way, we can concentrate on leading others in worship and not worry about the notes.
The same thing can (and does) happen when we practice sharing the gospel. Spend some time memorizing the “Mile Makers” along the Romans Road (Romans 3:23; 6:23; 5:8-10; 10:10). You don’t have to memorize every word of each verse, but be able to find the verses that walk through God’s plan of salvation. Be weird, read the verses out loud…again and again. It’s okay. You know how many practice serves a professional tennis player hits over the net into an empty court?! There doesn’t need to be an audience in order to practice and improve.
Lastly – bear in mind that the Holy Spirit is empowering your efforts. Nobody comes to faith unless the Father draws them (John 6:44). God will do His part – let’s be prepared to do ours. –Dave
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