No Secret

READ: Acts 26:9-32

Let me tell you what He has done for me.

Stephanie was telling me about her first week on the job as a physical therapist. Most of her co-workers were her age or a little older. She was welcomed into their group, but she faced a dilemma. Her new friends often went to bars after work. If they went to a basketball game, they drank and acted rowdy. A couple of the guys got a little “friendly” with her, and she began to feel uncomfortable.

She let them know that she was a believer in Jesus, and she did so in a wise and scriptural manner. Without being judgmental or condescending, she told them straight out that as a Christian she tries to live by her faith. She added that she liked them and hoped they liked her. After a couple of uncomfortable days, she found herself accepted by most of the group. One by one she had opportunity to speak to them about Jesus.

On the team, in the dorm, or at work, we might feel that we should keep our faith a secret. So we don’t say much about our personal lives or beliefs. We think avoiding certain subjects will make it easier to get along, and that way we won’t offend anyone.

Try telling that to the apostle Paul. He spoke about Jesus everywhere. He talked openly with King Agrippa about his faith and what it had cost him. When Festus interrupted and shouted that he was out of his mind, Paul simply kept reasoning with Agrippa (Acts 26:24-27).

If you’re in a situation where you aren’t sure how to handle your faith, it makes sense to be up front about Jesus and how you live. Be gentle and respectful. Avoid making judgments. Be honest. God will honor you when you make no secret about your faith. —Dave Egner

REFLECTION

• In what kind of situation am I most likely to hide my faith? What am I afraid might happen?
• What are some things I’ve seen other Christians do to try to cover up their faith?
• Am I willing to be courageous and share my faith with friends who don’t know Jesus?

Let’s reveal Jesus wherever He leads us.

campus journal