Do not fear the reproach of others, and do not be dismayed when they revile you. Isaiah 51:7

Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life, to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:12  

It is pretty clear from reading God’s word that He wants us not to have fear of others, especially when it comes to our faith.  We are to fight the good fight, and I think that doing that is a little different for everyone.  Unfortunately, there are those of us, and I count myself among them, who care a little or a lot about what others think of us.  And having that conviction sometimes seals our lips.  We do not always speak up for what we believe.  We do not always defend our faith.

I think about the line in a song that says,” and they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love by our love ————. And it’s true, to love is our command, to live it, to share it, to spread it around.  But is it enough if we do not open our mouths to spread our faith?  

I do not have an answer to that question.  But it disturbs me sometimes.  Am I the person that God wants me to be?  Am I ready and willing to speak up for Him? One thing I do know. He loves you and me, and He is forgiving beyond imagining. Would that we might hear his voice in our ear when we need those good words.

Loving God, thank you for being there for us.  Forgive us when the fight frightens us and we turn away.  Give us courage. Help us to spread your love always.  Amen 

Joan Perlich 

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party