A woman bought a bottle of cod liver oil to give to her dog so he could have a healthier and shinier coat. Every morning, she pried the dogs jaws open and forced the liquid down his throat. He struggled, but she persisted. He doesnt know whats good for him! she thought. Faithfully, each day she repeated the process.
One day, however, the bottle tipped over and she released her grip on the dog for just a moment to wipe up the mess. The dog sniffed at the fishy liquid and began lapping up what she had spilled. He actually loved the stuff. He had simply objected to being coerced!
Sometimes we use a similar method in telling others about Christ. Called buttonholing, its an intense, in-your-face kind of confrontation. While earnestly desiring to share the gospel, we may end up repelling people instead. In our sincere but overly enthusiastic attempt, we create resistance.
We are called to share the good news, but we are not responsible for someones acceptance or rejection of Christ. Its not our job to try to convict someone of sin. Thats the Holy Spirits responsibility (John 16:8).
As you tell others of Christs sacrifice, be sensitive. Know when to slow down and let God and His Word do the convicting and drawing to Himself.
Good Morning Mayor. Excellent, excellent thought in today’s ODB!
What a wonderful message this morning, Mr. Mayor, and a lot of truth there. I went to hear this wonderful singing group last night at my granddaughter’s church. It was ‘cold chill’ music and so wonderful! I don’t think there was a person in that church that wasn’t touched, just by song. Here is their website if you would like to see them http://www.brianfreeandassurance.com/ and they are also on YouTube. One of my FReeper FRiends pointed me to the group on YouTube!