I had begun to question...

There has been much reason for encouragement lately as we continue the effort in helping others depend upon and follow Christ more fully.  One of the greatest encouragements has come from a young man who I am investing my life and time into on a regular basis.
Isaiah has proven a couple of things to me that I had begun to question...

1.  Teenagers are fully capable of digesting and obeying the Truth of God.  As we sit across the table from one another each week, it is amazing the understanding that is had for the Story of God in the gospel.  He gets it!  Not only does he get it, but he is doing it!  As the Holy Spirit speaks, he listens and obeys.  None of the things which he has been obedient to came by me, but by the Word of God...none of it required persuasion from be but fully persuaded in the Spirit, obedience was found.  I have been praying for quite some time that God would send teenage men who are spiritually discerning.  While most young men are distracted by toys, Isaiah has been distracted by the work of God in his life in the last five months.  I am grateful for what God is doing in and through his life.
2.  Evangelism is not for the elite, but for all who follow Christ.  As someone who had a late start on sharing my faith in the public realm, I was disillusioned into thinking that only those who are "really serious" about their faith would tell others about Jesus.  While it is true that some simply won't open there mouth...it is also true that if we equip people with skills and a plan, some will.  Its encouraging to hear Isaiah tell me of the conversations he has been able to have with those on his bus.  Each week that we gather, he has stories to tell and people to pray for.  And just as fun, are the opportunities we receive because we meet in a public space each week.  Just yesterday we found ourselves sitting with a young lady who works at the donut shop we meet at each week, sharing the truth about Jesus and inviting her to know Him.  Not all people will open their mouth...but some will.

I am praying for those who have begun to share their faith in our town.  Praying for the Holy Spirit to speak with power and conviction as we share His Story.  Praying that eternities be changed and lives be transformed because we were wanting and willing to be used.  I hope...no, I believe that in the days to come these posts will tell of the lives that have been given to Christ as "some" went out and opened their lives and mouths to tell of this great Story.