December 18, 2016Contagious JoyJesus calls us to be His witnesses. When some Christians hear this, they worry that they need exceptional skill or charisma in order to explain the good news to others. Yet to witness is not merely to share the plan of salvation with someone. The word literally means “to see, hear, or know by personal presence and perception; testify to; bear witness; give or afford evidence of.” When John wrote that he was sharing what he had experienced first-hand, he was saying, “I am full of joy because of the experience of knowing Jesus, and I want to invite you to share in that joy.” When you’re in love with someone, you are excited about the relationship and time spent together. Likewise, when you’re in love with Jesus, you can’t keep to yourself the joy that comes from knowing Him—it just spills over, bearing witness and strengthening other believers. In fact, as you give testimony of who God is and how He’s working in your life, it makes no difference whether you speak quietly or with great exuberance. In their spirit, others will pick up on the deep, genuine gladness in your heart that goes beyond natural happiness. And people who don’t yet know the Lord will find themselves hungering for the joy you have. In that way, they will be drawn to His Spirit in you. Witnessing is not a matter of eloquence or talent; it’s an overflow of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. As you allow the Holy Spirit to increasingly express His life and power through you, contagious joy will be the fruit of His indwelling presence. Bible in One Year: Hebrews 4-6
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