S)"25 But as he was discussing righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix became frightened and said, 'Go away for the present, and when I find time I will summon you.'"
Acts 24:25 (NASB)
O) Felix is described just before this, as one being more familiar with the Way. Yet, when he spends a prolonged period of time with Paul, and specifically, when Paul is discussing what it means to be a Christian, Felix is shaken. Often times, it's hard to find the right balance of sharing the truth and being agreeable. The problem is that the truth isn't circumstantial or relative. It's good to be peaceful, with believers and unbelievers alike. Sharing the truth is important, though, and Paul shows this with his behavior. It's good to let unbelievers come to us with their questions, as opposed to harping on them, harassing them, or using a bullhorn to tell them they're sinful. Even then, though, being "seeker sensitive" is going to be confrontational at times.
A) I can't shy away from any ministry opportunity, especially when I'm being asked questions. I need to always be ready to give the reason for the hope that's within me (1 Peter 3:15), but I need to be prepared for the fact that, even when asked, the truth may not be received. The only thing I can do is be honest and be loving, and I need to be sure to do it at the same time (Ephesians 4:15).
P) Father, thank You for changing my heart so that I could accept truth for what it is. Thank You for calling on the hearts of all people, sending Your Holy Spirit ahead to draw them in to You. Remind me that it's not up to me, at least not me alone, to be sure everyone around me knows all the truth, all the time. Help me minister with my life and let it speak to Your goodness, grace, mercy, and love. Holy Spirit, help me be alert to ministry opportunities and speak the truth in love. Increase my discernment to know when people want to have deeper discussions about You. Give me courage to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
P) Father, thank You for changing my heart so that I could accept truth for what it is. Thank You for calling on the hearts of all people, sending Your Holy Spirit ahead to draw them in to You. Remind me that it's not up to me, at least not me alone, to be sure everyone around me knows all the truth, all the time. Help me minister with my life and let it speak to Your goodness, grace, mercy, and love. Holy Spirit, help me be alert to ministry opportunities and speak the truth in love. Increase my discernment to know when people want to have deeper discussions about You. Give me courage to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
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