Give
Most of us have a secret: we want to share our faith, but we are terrified of doing it. We worry about saying the wrong thing, damaging a friendship, or getting stuck in a debate we aren't equipped to win. The result? We stay silent. We keep our faith tucked away in our daily lives, waiting for a perfect, mystical moment that rarely arrives.
But what if sharing your faith wasn't about being a master theologian or a door-to-door campaigner? What if it was simply about living a life of love in the places you already go?
When we read the command in Matthew 28:18-20 to "go and make disciples," it is easy to hear it as a call to leave everything behind. We imagine missions to distant lands or standing on a street corner. But the word "go" in scripture is more of an invitation into your everyday life. It is a reminder that wherever you are, at the grocery store, in the office break room, or at your kid's soccer game, you are already in the mission field.
Discipleship isn't something that only starts after someone says yes to Jesus. It starts with a relationship. Just as Jesus walked alongside his followers, teaching them and sharing life with them, we are called to walk alongside the people in our lives. You aren't going alone; the same God who is pursuing your friends is already at work, preparing their hearts and using you as a bridge to reach them.
If you feel stuck, consider using the B.L.E.S.S. practice as a roadmap for your week. It takes the pressure off and centers your efforts on genuine connection:
* Begin with Prayer: Ask God to align your heart with His. Pray for your friends who don't know Him, and ask for wisdom in navigating those relationships.
* Listen: Jesus often asked, "What do you want me to do for you?" (Mark 10:51). Practice being curiously compassionate. Listen to what makes your friends tick and what hurdles they face.
* Eat: Hospitality is one of the most powerful tools in the Bible. Jesus spent time at tables with all kinds of people (Matthew 9:10-13). Inviting someone to your home or out for coffee is a low-pressure way to build a bridge.
* Serve: Once you know someone, you’ll naturally see ways to help them. Whether it’s helping with car trouble or watching their kids for a night, simple service builds a foundation of trust.
* Story: You have a story of how God has worked in your life. It doesn't have to be perfect; it just needs to be honest. Share the moments where He met you in your own struggles.
If the idea of evangelism makes your palms sweat, start small. You don't need a polished presentation. Start by praying for one person this week. Maybe it's a neighbor or a coworker. Ask God to show you how to listen well when you interact with them next. Look for opportunities to show kindness without expecting anything in return.
Remember, your goal isn't to force a conversion. Your goal is to be a faithful friend who reflects the light of Jesus. When we stop viewing evangelism as an awkward task and start seeing it as an opportunity to love people, the weight begins to lift. You are already in the perfect position to share the greatest news in the world. Who is one person you can check in on or invite for coffee this week? Start there, and let God handle the rest.
Listen to the full sermon below.
