Every Opportunity (Words, Conclusion)

The title: I’ve used those words before, but had no better heading to close this series. It describes how followers of Christ are to take all chances to let our language show our light.

Too often, aware or unaware, we act as though faith is simply a “personal” thing—like it’s just between us and God. But the Word of God is clear that the “inward” faith we have is supposed to reflect an “outward,” distinguishable reality that is public. The topics touched--not swearing and keeping our word; using encouraging words; avoiding angry words; and sharing The Good News—are just a few examples of how our words are to glow.

Most importantly, in our memory should be that, at God’s leading, our words can move someone else from a grave end to a glorious, new beginning in Christ. The passage from the intro, Colossians 4: 5-6, is a good summary: “5Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

We really do have a world where people are watching. And we can probably provide our own examples of someone letting us know so. When our words are constantly full of grace--building up rather than tearing down; loving rather than hateful; measured instead of rash, we are sowing eternal seeds that benefit "outsiders"--and the Body as well!

I've listened to two great messages recently about the importance of particularly using words to "represent" our faith.

Analogizing from the football season and the upcoming Superbowl, at my church we're doing a series on being a "Die-Hard Fan" of God. One message on sharing our faith in word (and in deed) really hit me. I'll paraphrase a key comment (in quotes) "when our light hits the room, it's literally supposed to expose darkness.” Are our lights doing that?

A message from another pastor talked about the importance of telling people by our words and actions that Christianity isn't for any one type of person. He touched some of the false perceptions about the faith. Again paraphrasing, he said, "it's not a southern 'Bible Belt' thing; a western thing or a certain political party thing."

We need to let people in all different circles, of all shades and stripes, know the life-changing power our faith is supposed to bring. And we've been shown the method and manner to manifest it. And it begins with a desire to be like Him. I'll let His words in 1 Peter 3:15 close:

“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

Words, Conclusion.