Praise: Given for the wrong reason

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IDEAtor

Senior Member
Aug 15, 2012
827
19
18
#1
Tonight there was a man who decided to pull me aside. I thought he might have something of monetary value, but it was a tract, a tool to point people to the gospel and for urging their repentance. I accepted the gesture, but I felt bad because I know my faith is in God already. Still, I listened and pocketed the, not one, two, or even 3, but a handful of creative comic books-- with a soul purpose.

Well, after this, I went back carrying on with what else needed to be done. And the man went back to his supporting cast of a believing family. Still, even as I worked, I wanted to reconnect with the man and ask some questions. It was shortly after this desire ran across my mind, when I got a call that the man wanted to give me his number to keep in touch.
So, in route to other related work, I intentionally welcomed his assertive-yet-peaceful "business card" (another tract with his number on it).

Again, however, I had other work to tend to, so I had to keep the interaction brief and went on my way.
Finally, after it was time to go, I went to see him again...
Only, he was talking with a team member... an unbelieving, antagonistic team member.

Well, shortly after the witnessing man left, (a baptist), the skeptic announced to all the team members...
"Hey, guys, (chuckle)! You need to check out these comic books. They are really cool (said sarcastically)!"

And just like that, a man's faith went further than anyone imagined.
While the humor, jabbing, and lighthearted banter was shared by each person,
(I listened, observed, and prayed) something was said by one one other team member,
"I will probably read it at home tonight" (grins).

And they then glanced at a booklet and talked about the Jesus drawing.
Honestly, it was funny to see the drawing.
But what was far better for me was how God was getting laughter in
how the man who doubted had become the conduit for sharing the gospel.

True, it is sad and gross when people are against God, mocking Jesus and those who innocently share about Him.
But it is so great to see how the right message was presented,
even if it was for the wrong reason.

Prayer:
Lord, first, bless the informed givers and even those who joked.
But also draw someone, some, or all-- to look at the booklet, to think on the Truth presented therein.
Help me to pray for them, to call and listen with love. And help transform for your Glory.
Lord, thanks for the reminder to speak up, give, and to trust that You work things out...
even through unsuspecting skeptics. In Jesus' name, your will be done, amen.