A Powerful Thing!

Sometimes important things just need to be said. Because of the dangerous direction a life is moving, bold warnings need to be stated. Such should be done with sincere love and also patience (note 1 Thessalonians 5:14) as genuine concern is felt for others. Doing something when the wrong direction of the life of others is seen was also noted by Jude. ( Jude 22-23) Being mindful of one another's lives as Christians serves as a safeguard for all of us and we would be wise to develop appreciation for it. However, though urgent warning through the sharing of the truth of God's word is also important with regard to non-believers, there is another POWERFUL TOOL in our arsenal as Christians to be remembered, and that is the EXAMPLE OF OUR LIFE!

With regard to wives with unbelieving husbands, Peter urged. . .
"(1) Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they MAY BE WON WITHOUT A WORD BY THE CONDUCT of their wives, (2) when they see your respectful and pure conduct." ( 1 Peter 3:1-2 ESV)

I had the joy of seeing how this very thing -- the LIFE EXAMPLE of my grandmother -- worked to finally bring my grandfather to the Lord. It is important to recognize when preaching at, constant nagging, and "in your face" confrontation are tending to build a barrier and drive away rather than persuade the right direction.

Let us be mindful of how this principle can work powerfully in other relationships as well. There is great power in setting a consistent GODLY EXAMPLE in the manner in which we live our lives. Such living reveals our seriousness of accepting the Christian walk. Living un-hypocritically reflects the genuineness of the changes God has brought to our life. And the joy, peace, and faith exhibited even in the midst of life's challenges will become powerful indicators of the stability only the Christian life provides.

There are many living around us who have a void in their life being filled with the wrong things and they are not finding true satisfaction. May the EXAMPLE OF OUR LIFE clearly reveal what they are missing and the blessing living for Christ truly brings.

Have a great day WINNING OTHERS BY A GODLY WALK!
Carl

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