April 7: The Art of Witnessing

April 7: The Art of Witnessing

Scripture: "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son..." — John 3:16

Witnessing is simply one beggar telling another where to find bread. It is the natural overflow of a heart that has been touched by the "melting love of God." If we truly claim to love God, we will naturally want to enlighten those around us about the great salvation we have found. Truth is too precious to be kept to ourselves.

When we talk to others about Christ, our hearts should be "overflowing with the tender, pitying love" of the Savior. There is no place for harshness or loud notes of condemnation. Our goal is not to win an argument, but to win a soul. We do this by pointing them away from their own sinful selves and toward the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world."

Before we can effectively speak to others, our own souls must be "consecrated to God." We must be broken at the foot of the cross ourselves. Only when we have been softened and subdued by redeeming love can we speak to others with the authenticity that truly reaches the heart. Argumentative subjects rarely produce fruit; it is the love of Christ that wins.

Don't be an "empty cistern." Fill yourself with the water of life so that you have something to give to those who are thirsting. Christ crucified is the theme that breaks and wins hearts. Talk it, pray it, and sing it. Let the "Sun of Righteousness" shed its beams through you to everyone you encounter.

Reflection Questions:

When was the last time I spoke to someone about God's love without being "argumentative"?

Is my own heart currently "consecrated" and "softened" by the cross?

Who is one person in my sphere of influence who seems "thirsty" for the truth?

Source: Maranatha, p. 105, Ellen G. White.