Winning Others Without A Word

Scripture: Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12

Do you have the chance to talk about your faith? Last week, we discussed words you could use to tell others about about the Gospel. But what if they won’t listen? What if you can get in trouble starting conversations about Jesus?

In His love, God instructed us on how to be His Message, before even using words: “live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God” (1 Peter 2:12). How can this look in your life?

In Your Home

One of the best ways to have a thriving, godly household is to show the Fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). Can you imagine the impact your family or household could have on your community when they see you interacting this way? Godly families are able to work together for the Lord as they “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21).

In Your Church

Jesus told His followers, “your love for one another will prove to the world that you are My disciples” (John 13:35). The Bible encourages us to “get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech” (I Peter 2:1). Instead, church members can “think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24).

In Your World

Every time you work with others, you can “work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” (Colossians 3:23). We might not like things we have to do, but we can behave in ways that honor the Lord -- even when we disagree with someone. Remember, Jesus taught us to “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father Who is in Heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

Living for God and redirecting praise and attention to Him brings Him glory. It also gives you a chance to be a powerful witness when people wonder what makes you so different. Remember: good works can’t earn salvation, so they aren’t enough to bring someone to faith. But they can give you an opportunity to share the “reason for your hope” (1 Peter 3:15).