By Pastor/Teacher, James R. Paxton
If you are a Christian then you are a witness unto this world of who God is in your life. There are good witnesses and there are bad witnesses. First, let’s look at the good witnesses. They walk around with joy stirring in their hearts which gives them strength for the day. They reflect the peace of God that passes all understanding. They major in being a blessing and always try to help those around them. Sometimes they offer a word of encouragement and sometimes just being someone who will listen. They stand ready to pray for those in need because the Bible instructs them to do so. They are faithful to God in giving Him their tithe which God has declared to be holy. They are not negligent in giving an offering as they are able. When the church doors open they will be found in the number present. They watch for opportunities to be a blessing in keeping the church a good example in the community. They are always ready to tell others about the good news of the Bible. You can see Jesus in them.
Now, let us examine another type of witness. Some “tell it like it is”. They don’t call it gossip; they are just passing on what they heard. They are more likely to be a passing visitor than a pillar in the church. Often when the church doors open they had other things to do. I am not speaking of an incident but a pattern. Over a period of time the fire that once burned hot in their spirit has become a smoldering ember. It took some time but they have finally settled down. Joy has diminished and peace is running low. I have no right to pass judgment but Jesus said that if you are lukewarm, He will spew you out of His mouth.
We all have things that come up that require our attention. None of us are a perfect example. However, when we begin to compromise and change our priorities to something other than putting God first we place ourselves in danger. The Word of God tells us to put God first. Our choices determine our position and our future. Someone said “God knows my heart”. He certainly does, in fact the Word of God declares in Pr 20:27 The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.
The spirit of man is the heart or the inner man. God looks beyond our abilities or our intentions and sees the very promptings of our heart. God knows if we are hungry for Him or just want an occasional snack. He told us to let our light shine. I pray that it is shining brightly being an encouragement to others and pointing everyone to Jesus and His Word.
Perhaps you need to stoke the fire and get things stirred up again. David said when he was discouraged (1Sa 30:6) And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God. It works!
Maranatha!
