Our world is full of broken people trying to navigate through difficult times without gospel hope. They choose independence over dependence on a savior, and quietly (or sometimes loudly) express dissatisfaction over life’s cruel “fate”.
And, the pain doesn’t stop there. Ask any family member struggling to convey Christ’s incredible love to a hard-hearted son or daughter for years without any perceived results. However, God is working, and His providential plan takes time.
The word “providence” comes from the Latin word providentia and means essentially foresight or making provision beforehand. We see quite a few scriptural references to providence; two of which are “Your foresight has brought about reforms in this nation” (Acts 24:2) and “Make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires” (Romans 13:14). In other words, God not only knows the future, but accomplishes what He sets out to do… from creation of the entire universe to every aspect of human existence. We come alongside our creator in order to complete His work.
How can New Life be the hands and feet of Christ and minister to our unbelieving neighbors, family members, friends, acquaintances, and co-workers? There are a few simple things that make big differences:
· Welcome them. No matter how different they seem from us, be cordial. Jesus invited everyone and told the parable of the great banquet in Luke 14:15-24, where he commanded, “Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.”
· Build connections and relationships. Our close friends were missionaries in Russia for over twenty-five years, and it took a minimum of two to three years in order to build trust and connect with an individual; only then were they able to fully develop a curiosity and desire for the gospel message.
· Show hospitality. Create homes where they feel comfortable. Share a meal. Hospitality was actually a legal obligation for the Israelites, as noted in the Talmud, and did require food being served. Remember, Christ met physical needs before spiritual needs. But, don’t panic—keep simple, fail-proof, go-to recipes and snacks. I personally have some family favorites, including: chicken alfredo, hearty stew, chicken parmesan, and breakfast casserole. Hebrews 13:2 reminds us, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” Additionally, Titus 1:8 confirms our duty to “be hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.”
· Engage in relevant conversation. Discover more about the individual, such as interests, hobbies, life experiences, future plans, etc. Avoid political conversations, as things can quickly derail. Find out what you have in common, rather than focusing on differences. Galatians 6:10 is a beautiful scripture to focus on, “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
· Pray with them. Rarely will someone refuse prayer. Even if there is an initial period of awkwardness, keep praying. Nothing is more exciting than seeing God answer prayer and the Holy Spirit moving. Consider your own personal testimony and how it took time to fully understand the gospel message, with prayer being one of the first steps.
· Choose gospel hope over despair. Continue spending time in God’s word and heartfelt prayer. Remember, even Paul experienced frustration during his ministry, but he always adjusted his attitude by looking to Christ and a providential plan, asking others to come alongside him in prayer. While in prison, Paul’s words in Colossians 4:3 reflect his continued focus and steadfast faith. “At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—”
Lastly, Moses, Joseph, David, Hannah, Sarah, Elizabeth, and countless others have all experienced a delay in God’s providential timing, so you are in good company. Hold fast, my friend, and do not give up hope, even when relationships break down and the gospel message is misunderstood. Continue to love others and pray. Be an example (mentor). Genesis 18:14 declares that the impossible becomes possible. “Is anything too difficult for the Lord?”
With Love in Christ,
Diana