Session 5

You’re equipped, but are you willing?

From Jeremiah: A 33-Day Devotional

Being the only Christian at work, in your social circle or in your family is tough. Often our values and choices don’t line up with those around us, which can make conversations awkward. It feels like people tiptoe around certain subjects to avoid offending us. At the same time, we’re wondering, “How in the world can I share the Gospel alone? Can’t I get some help, Jesus?”

In Jeremiah 5:1, God told Jeremiah, “Go up and down the streets of Jerusalem, look around and consider, search through her squares. If you can find but one person who deals honestly and seeks the truth, I will forgive this city.” Pause for a moment and rejoice in knowing that if Jesus is your Lord and Savior, you are that person in your community. Jesus has blessed you with salvation, and now you’re equipped to share the reason you have hope with everyone you know!

God promised that one person can bring forgiveness to an entire city. If you’re the only person who can bring forgiveness to a larger group of people, you’ve been put in that position for a reason. Perhaps because you’re the best person for the job. Take heart in knowing that sharing your faith isn’t easy, and everyone who has ever wanted to tell someone close to them about Jesus has experienced that same struggle. All of us have felt alone.

As Christians, we have the power to offer salvation and forgiveness to those around us. What they decide to do with Jesus isn’t our responsibility. Jesus has equipped us, so be willing to take up His charge and love those around you by sharing the good news of who Jesus is.

Reflect:

• Are you the only Christian in your school, your office or your family? Begin praying for each person in that place by name, and ask Jesus to show you how to best tell them about Him.
• Did you think of someone or a few people who need to hear the Gospel while reading this devotional? Begin praying for them and ask the Lord how you can share the Gospel with them. You may be the only person they know who can.
• Have you tried to share the Gospel with those around you and feel that you’ve failed? Ask someone to pray with you. Pray for other opportunities and other ways of sharing the Gospel, and pray that the Lord makes them receptive to His message.