PRAY for unbelievers!!

[maryjohanna]

Hi all! Mary Jo here! I have been on Yahoo! Answers lately trying to answer to Christ-related questions as a means of witness. It is great to have a forum where you just fellowship with fellow body members, but we are called to go where it is hardest and preach the Word. I have noticed so many people who tease God, mock Christ, make fun of the body, and just don't belief in God at all. This thread is completely dedicated to reminding everyone of the importance of PREACHING and PRAYING for those are don't believe. Eternal life is real and serious. We are called to love our neighbors and doing that means pointing them to Christ and praying that their hearts are softened. Don't hesitate to share progress on someone who is coming to Christ, share tips on witnessing techniques that you find most effective, or simply request prayer for someone without Christ. This is our job, family! God bless everyone. I hope we all can fellowship through this matter.

 

[crmvet]

Amen

 

[Poinsetta]

amen I also pray for my friend's family members to be saved one day God willing and that they might be born again, in Jesus name amen

 

[maryjohanna]

amen I also pray for my friend's family members to be saved one day God willing and that they might be born again, in Jesus name amen

I will be praying for you and your family, Poinsetta. God bless!

 

[Poinsetta]

thank you! @maryjohanna

 

[mar09]

Hi all! Mary Jo here! I have been on Yahoo! Answers lately trying to answer to Christ-related questions as a means of witness. It is great to have a forum where you just fellowship with fellow body members, but we are called to go where it is hardest and preach the Word. I have noticed so many people who tease God, mock Christ, make fun of the body, and just don't belief in God at all. This thread is completely dedicated to reminding everyone of the importance of PREACHING and PRAYING for those are don't believe. Eternal life is real and serious. We are called to love our neighbors and doing that means pointing them to Christ and praying that their hearts are softened. Don't hesitate to share progress on someone who is coming to Christ, share tips on witnessing techniques that you find most effective, or simply request prayer for someone without Christ. This is our job, family! God bless everyone. I hope we all can fellowship through this matter.

Do include my own brothers and sisters who, i know have heard the Gospel thru the years, but have not fully accepted the Savior and surrendered their lives to the Messiah Yeshua. Thank You, Lord for hearing prayers on behalf of our loved ones, our neighbors we continue to lift up to You, our govt officials who so need You in their lives, Amen.

 

[maryjohanna]

Do include my own brothers and sisters who, i know have heard the Gospel thru the years, but have not fully accepted the Savior and surrendered their lives to the Messiah Yeshua. Thank You, Lord for hearing prayers on behalf of our loved ones, our neighbors we continue to lift up to You, our govt officials who so need You in their lives, Amen.

I will keep all of this in mind, @mar09 - thank you for your contribution! God bless.

 

[EliBeth]

Hi all! Mary Jo here! I have been on Yahoo! Answers lately trying to answer to Christ-related questions as a means of witness. It is great to have a forum where you just fellowship with fellow body members, but we are called to go where it is hardest and preach the Word. I have noticed so many people who tease God, mock Christ, make fun of the body, and just don't belief in God at all. This thread is completely dedicated to reminding everyone of the importance of PREACHING and PRAYING for those are don't believe. Eternal life is real and serious. We are called to love our neighbors and doing that means pointing them to Christ and praying that their hearts are softened. Don't hesitate to share progress on someone who is coming to Christ, share tips on witnessing techniques that you find most effective, or simply request prayer for someone without Christ. This is our job, family! God bless everyone. I hope we all can fellowship through this matter.

Hello, Mary Jo! I appreciate your passionate reminder; and I stand in agreement with you. To be painfully transparent though, I have been negligent in this department! Oh, I've participated in organized children's classes teaching Biblical truth. And I've gone on a brief foreign mission trip. Recently, I've even begun texting an estranged cousin who once was very close (with no response), trying to show I love her and also sharing the Gospel. (Her name is Juliet- please join me in prayer for her salvation!) Nevertheless, I feel my own missional efforts to date have been grossly inadequate.

I suppose the two greatest problems I seem to have are 1) "not knowing how" (that probably sounds pretty silly- salvation isn't too terribly complicated, right?), and 2) seeing the way I still sin and believing the accusation that I'm too much of a hypocrite! I fear doing more damage than good and driving unbelievers from Christ even further because of some fault on my part. I am aware that these so-called problems are not justifiable excuses. I hope and trust Father will help me work through these hindrances so that more people may hear and receive His glorious message of life everlasting!

And may God bless you, Sister. 🙂

 

[maryjohanna]

Hello, Mary Jo! I appreciate your passionate reminder; and I stand in agreement with you. To be painfully transparent though, I have been negligent in this department! Oh, I've participated in organized children's classes teaching Biblical truth. And I've gone on a brief foreign mission trip. Recently, I've even begun texting an estranged cousin who once was very close (with no response), trying to show I love her and also sharing the Gospel. (Her name is Juliet- please join me in prayer for her salvation!) Nevertheless, I feel my own missional efforts to date have been grossly inadequate.

I suppose the two greatest problems I seem to have are 1) "not knowing how" (that probably sounds pretty silly- salvation isn't too terribly complicated, right?), and 2) seeing the way I still sin and believing the accusation that I'm too much of a hypocrite! I fear doing more damage than good and driving unbelievers from Christ even further because of some fault on my part. I am aware that these so-called problems are not justifiable excuses. I hope and trust Father will help me work through these hindrances so that more people may hear and receive His glorious message of life everlasting!

And may God bless you, Sister. 🙂

@EliBeth - thank you for responding. I think you honestly just shared the true feelings of all Christians, to be honest. First off, I promise you that I will pray for Juliet. She will be on my heart. I understand the feeling of questioning, like you aren't doing what you should be. I don't think we should be putting a standard on things, though. Allow God to present opportunities for you to verbally witness, ya know? I think the reason why so many nonbelievers [NB] feel put off is because people just shove the Word down their throats, so to speak, while sitting on some kind of high horse.

It doesn't sound silly at all - we see it so clearly as believers, but others don't see it as we do because their hearts are hardened, so that presents an obstacle for us. While I always believed in God, it took me well into my teenage years to truly develop a relationship with God and...get it. I try to remember the position I was in before I was reborn, and put myself in the shoes of NBs.

You see, I think you could use your second problem for something positive. I think NBs don't truly realize how humble of a faith Christianity is because so much of the body just focuses on "being right." I was on Yahoo! Answers one evening and I had NBs telling me things like "I feel like I have tried praying and I don't hear anything" or "I ask for an answer and I don't get one." People have NO IDEA that believers ask the SAME questions, go through the SAME things, and SIN the same SINS! We need to remind people that making us believers doesn't make us any different in nature. We are all sinners in need of Christ and we all have questions that need answering. I appreciate you being transparent because those are the feelings of all believers; at least, I can relate. I know for me I sometimes freeze up and just get nervous about what to say. It makes me think of when God spoke to Moses in Exodus 4; Moses told God that he had never been eloquent in speaking and he always had a "slow" tongue; God asked Moses "Who has made man's mouth?...I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak" [v. 10-12]. I need to work on letting God speak through me and do the talking. When John the Baptist preached, he didn't say a single thing personally against anyone, argue with anyone, etc.; he just gave the facts and provided the basics of the Gospel.

I do think too, though, that our actions are more of a witness than we realize. Witnessing doesn't just mean physically talking and preaching; it can be showing, doing, and behaving. Don't get yourself down about feeling like you aren't doing enough. You have no idea the lives you touch just through the way you act. That is why Christ encouraged us to BE the light and LOVE others - words aren't enough.

God bless!! I hope to have a further discussion with you about everything.

 

[EliBeth]

@EliBeth - thank you for responding. I think you honestly just shared the true feelings of all Christians, to be honest. First off, I promise you that I will pray for Juliet. She will be on my heart. I understand the feeling of questioning, like you aren't doing what you should be. I don't think we should be putting a standard on things, though. Allow God to present opportunities for you to verbally witness, ya know? I think the reason why so many nonbelievers [NB] feel put off is because people just shove the Word down their throats, so to speak, while sitting on some kind of high horse.

It doesn't sound silly at all - we see it so clearly as believers, but others don't see it as we do because their hearts are hardened, so that presents an obstacle for us. While I always believed in God, it took me well into my teenage years to truly develop a relationship with God and...get it. I try to remember the position I was in before I was reborn, and put myself in the shoes of NBs.

You see, I think you could use your second problem for something positive. I think NBs don't truly realize how humble of a faith Christianity is because so much of the body just focuses on "being right." I was on Yahoo! Answers one evening and I had NBs telling me things like "I feel like I have tried praying and I don't hear anything" or "I ask for an answer and I don't get one." People have NO IDEA that believers ask the SAME questions, go through the SAME things, and SIN the same SINS! We need to remind people that making us believers doesn't make us any different in nature. We are all sinners in need of Christ and we all have questions that need answering. I appreciate you being transparent because those are the feelings of all believers; at least, I can relate. I know for me I sometimes freeze up and just get nervous about what to say. It makes me think of when God spoke to Moses in Exodus 4; Moses told God that he had never been eloquent in speaking and he always had a "slow" tongue; God asked Moses "Who has made man's mouth?...I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak" [v. 10-12]. I need to work on letting God speak through me and do the talking. When John the Baptist preached, he didn't say a single thing personally against anyone, argue with anyone, etc.; he just gave the facts and provided the basics of the Gospel.

I do think too, though, that our actions are more of a witness than we realize. Witnessing doesn't just mean physically talking and preaching; it can be showing, doing, and behaving. Don't get yourself down about feeling like you aren't doing enough. You have no idea the lives you touch just through the way you act. That is why Christ encouraged us to BE the light and LOVE others - words aren't enough.

God bless!! I hope to have a further discussion with you about everything.

Thank you so much for your prayers and thought-filled post. 👍🏻

Yeah, I think I can put myself in NB shoes in regards to them being put off bc Christians try to shove them truth and hide their own sins. But because of NBs blindness they may not understand that the window of time for their acceptance of Christ is limited, while the consequences of not coming to Christ are eternal. Hence, (hopefully) the urgency of Christians. But maybe part of it, like you say, is Christians (wrongly) prioritizing being right and getting their point in over listening to and caring for the individual, and then speaking the truth but in an always-gentle manner.

Maybe I have it all wrong... Maybe if I wasn't concerned about NBs knowing how I still struggle with sinful failures and lack of love they would be more open to this gospel message, because there would be more of a relatability there. It's just that I hear some NBs saying how Christian hypocrisy is the reason they would never step foot in a church, etc.

Great Bible reference about Moses and great point about allowing God to do the speaking. You know, on the foreign mission trip I wrote about, it was wonderful! I had already decided beforehand that I would NOT allow fear to grip me, rather I would open my mouth and trust that what came out was from God. And I believe that happened. Fear wasn't a problem. The words came. And I could sense that God was in it. Now, why have I not implemented this procedure devotedly since coming back to the States? 🤔 🤷🏻‍♀️ But! I can make a change...with His grace. 😊

That's so true about walking the walk and how that in itself can speak volumes. You're right, thanks!

@maryjohanna, let's do chat more later!

 

[maryjohanna]

But maybe part of it, like you say, is Christians (wrongly) prioritizing being right and getting their point in over listening to and caring for the individual, and then speaking the truth but in an always-gentle manner.
Maybe I have it all wrong... Maybe if I wasn't concerned about NBs knowing how I still struggle with sinful failures and lack of love they would be more open to this gospel message, because there would be more of a relatability there. It's just that I hear some NBs saying how Christian hypocrisy is the reason they would never step foot in a church, etc.

I know what you mean by all of this; I don't think you have it all wrong at all. I think that an aid to your point would be to emphasize with others that Christians are sinners and are in a place of need just like everyone else. Aside from being a renewed part of Christ's body, there is no set difference. We struggle, suffer, experience trials and make mistakes just like everyone else; sharing this and branching off of that to witness and share the message of the Gospel may be a way to do it. I get the hypocrisy thing bc I think that is this case in some scenarios, but that makes it even more important for there to be Christ followers who make it their goal to show people that there is condescending or superior attitude that has to exist. It comes from a place of true love!!

 

[maryjohanna]

Great Bible reference about Moses and great point about allowing God to do the speaking. You know, on the foreign mission trip I wrote about, it was wonderful! I had already decided beforehand that I would NOT allow fear to grip me, rather I would open my mouth and trust that what came out was from God. And I believe that happened. Fear wasn't a problem. The words came. And I could sense that God was in it. Now, why have I not implemented this procedure devotedly since coming back to the States?

Maybe leaving the country and going on those trips is your calling, though, truly. I love your confidence so much in God's ability to speak through you. That is something I need to work on... is feeling content to let Him do the work, instead of stress over what I am going to say myself. I also believe that being in the states..people carry a different attitude toward the faith than other places. Everyone is different and its really about adapting to who people are and connecting with them based on environment.

 

[Bingo]

"Let us pray that we may become a channel for God's spirit.
Let us pray that God's spirit may flow through us into the lives of others."
'Amen'
'Praise God'
( My first prayer posted on this site. We must be the example, not the problem.
And, let us be reminded, many are called, few are chosen. A lost soul, often
must experience a dramatic event, before they learn to truly turn to God. )

 

[EliBeth]

I know what you mean by all of this; I don't think you have it all wrong at all. I think that an aid to your point would be to emphasize with others that Christians are sinners and are in a place of need just like everyone else. Aside from being a renewed part of Christ's body, there is no set difference. We struggle, suffer, experience trials and make mistakes just like everyone else; sharing this and branching off of that to witness and share the message of the Gospel may be a way to do it. I get the hypocrisy thing bc I think that is this case in some scenarios, but that makes it even more important for there to be Christ followers who make it their goal to show people that there is condescending or superior attitude that has to exist. It comes from a place of true love!!

So! I got to practice being more upfront about my own frailty today, but it was in conversation with a Christian friend, not NB... Lol. Nevertheless! I am hoping to build upon this in the future and what better time to start than the present. >>

My friend was letting me know she's struggling with depressive tendencies and being easily upset. I was honest about how I had been troubled similarly in the past several weeks... I will say, I had the thought, "Should I say something positive back to try to uplift her- maybe send an encouraging verse? (Some might call it "preach") Or should I tell how I've been in a similar boat?" ... Sometimes it's hard to know which approach to use, because truly one approach may be best and most needed at certain times and another at other times. It just reinforces the fact that we have to lean on and listen for the guidance of the inner Holy Spirit, I suppose. 🙂

I will say this: There has to be a balance between a) speaking truth and b) listening and c) showing how we struggle too. Some do too much of a and not enough b & c. But also there are those who do too much b & c and not enough a. Again, "Holy Spirit, we need you!" YES to what you said about it has to come from a place of love. Love is preeminent.

I got to thinking about my reasoning that I fear NBs knowing/seeing my own failures and struggles bc they may label me hypocritical and reject Christ as a result... But I guess the whole idea of being hypocritical is pretending you are better than you really are. Hmmm, does that make me a hypocrite? 🤔 So perhaps the problem lies not in our sinfulness and weakness or NBs seeing such, but in our pretending (or their perception of our pretending). But I still think it could be highly possible for a NB to see a Christian have a rage fit and then label them a hypocrite even without knowing whether that Christian lived an open and honest lifestyle about their struggles (i.e. was generally very humble and not a pretender). Sometimes I think we get a bad wrap bc NBs expect perfection from us, when nobody can live to that degree. And, sadly, if they use us as an excuse not to come to God, their hearts really aren't humbled before His majesty and worthiness anyway. I ramble on, Mary Jo. I overthink things. Do forgive me. ☺️

Maybe leaving the country and going on those trips is your calling, though, truly. I love your confidence so much in God's ability to speak through you. That is something I need to work on... is feeling content to let Him do the work, instead of stress over what I am going to say myself. I also believe that being in the states..people carry a different attitude toward the faith than other places. Everyone is different and its really about adapting to who people are and connecting with them based on environment.

Funny you mention that- as a child I believed God called me to foreign mission work. Barring the one trip I wrote of, this vision has not been fulfilled thus far into my time on earth. But I am seeking His perfect will and just because it hasn't happened yet doesn't mean it won't!

Well, the sharing I did on the trip was easier than the evangelization you do because we went from house to house and the people really didn't ask very many questions. We just shared a pre-memorized story from the Bible and a little of our own testimony. So there really wasn't a lot of back-and-forth dialogue. And also, it helped knowing I could (unintentionally) make an utter fool of myself and then fly home in a few days, never to see the dear, sweet people again. He will help you rest in His ability. 🙂

So true, people of different regions def carry differing attitudes toward the gospel. I think another reason why I haven't been more faithful to share salvation truth here is because there seems to be an apathy, a complacency that rebuffs belief in and especially surrender to God. Many seem to be content to live their lives for self without worrying about genuine loyalty to God... In other places at least people realize their need for one who is greater than themselves and their role in revering him. But I am going down a rabbit trail. The messenger mustn't label and judge the people he is sent to, in just the way he wishes that they not label and judge him. I dare not be a Jonah!! My God-given mission, as you so passionately reminded us here at CC in your original post, is to be a vessel for God to speak through and to couple this with prayer.

 

[EliBeth]

I think another reason why I haven't been more faithful to share salvation truth here is because there seems to be an apathy, a complacency that rebuffs belief in and especially surrender to God.

For clarification, by "here" I mean the United States, not here on this site.

 

[maryjohanna]

I will say this: There has to be a balance between a) speaking truth and b) listening and c) showing how we struggle too. Some do too much of a and not enough b & c. But also there are those who do too much b & c and not enough a. Again, "Holy Spirit, we need you!" YES to what you said about it has to come from a place of love. Love is preeminent.

Yes @EliBeth ! We need this balance. It is so important.

So perhaps the problem lies not in our sinfulness and weakness or NBs seeing such, but in our pretending (or their perception of our pretending). But I still think it could be highly possible for a NB to see a Christian have a rage fit and then label them a hypocrite even without knowing whether that Christian lived an open and honest lifestyle about their struggles (i.e. was generally very humble and not a pretender). Sometimes I think we get a bad wrap bc NBs expect perfection from us, when nobody can live to that degree. And, sadly, if they use us as an excuse not to come to God, their hearts really aren't humbled before His majesty and worthiness anyway. I ramble on, Mary Jo. I overthink things. Do forgive me. ☺️

LOL, I have a tendency to do the same exact thing. I truly think you hit the nail on the head here. That is why I emphasized beforehand that for today's Christians, I really believe that it is crucial for us all to focus on the "c" of your list. People need to see the imperfection, and the fallibility, and the sin. I think some people are so inclined to brush the idea of sin under the rug, but people don't understand that sin is a crucial part of the Christian equation. Without it, we wouldn't need a Savior. Christ did what He did because of our sin. So, we need to show that.

Well, the sharing I did on the trip was easier than the evangelization you do because we went from house to house and the people really didn't ask very many questions. We just shared a pre-memorized story from the Bible and a little of our own testimony. So there really wasn't a lot of back-and-forth dialogue.

Don't ever think your work was just "easy" and simple. It doesn't matter to what degree; you did the Lord's work and that is what is important!

Many seem to be content to live their lives for self without worrying about genuine loyalty to God

It is a scary thought that people live their lives this way, and that motivates me even more to feel passionately for the cause.

Thank you for your touching response!! I am glad you were able to converse with someone. Let's keep in touch; I like you!! lol.

 

[levi85]

Lord bless maryjohanna, and this prayer request, in Jesus glorious name, Amen!