Paul says it was not always rosy sharing the Word of God with other people. Some people spit on them and said things to them one cannot repeat here. They were hit with sticks and even imprisoned, but not even that stopped them from sharing the good news ³We had just been given rough treatment in Philippi, as you know, but that didn’t slow us down. We were sure of ourselves in God, and went right ahead and said our piece, presenting God’s Message to you, defiant of the opposition.

Let’s be honest with one another and admit that it is not always easy to take a stand for God in this world today. Things have changed and most of us are not in danger at all when we stand up for God. But we struggle.

I go through the Bible step-by-step, trying to study each verse to hear what God is saying. There are wonderful verses that give you courage and support when everyday life wants to push you into the ground. But others are not so nice. These verses rebuke you and shine a light on the dark spots of your life and then it is not such a nice picture. These verses aren’t very popular with us.

In our ministry I see those encouraging verses flying all over the place as people forward them to one another. I get lots of feedback and I’m grateful that we can support people when times are hard. It gives people hope.

But the same doesn’t happen with those verses that show us the wrong direction. We actually shy away from them, skimming over them as we read. It’s bad when I see people unsubscribing from the newsletter when they are rebuked by the Word.

If we are serious about the matters of God, we must tell the whole story. We cannot just tell what people want to hear. No, we must proclaim God’s whole message. We mustn’t add water to weaken the seriousness of the message so as not to offend anybody.

My friends, don’t stop. Even if the bushes in front of you seem impenetrable, keep on going. Walk within the will of God and do what He entrusted you to do. There where you work. At home. With your friends and even with strangers.

Just keep on doing what God wants you to do! Don’t water down stuff just to fit in with people. Don’t lose speed. Don’t say the things you think others want to hear. Nope, call a spade a spade.

And God will be the wind at your back. God will send you and take your hand and the world will change for sure. Not because you’re so cute, but because you allow God to work through you with His wonderful love. Then the truth will win every time.

Scripture

1 Thessalonians 2:1-4

Reflection

What is hard at the moment?

Where do you have to push on?

What about God?

Prayer

Father, please help me to share your message with others as I receive it from You. Your Word is the Truth and nothing but the Truth. Help me to never twist it to gain the favour of people. Amen.