A Testimony on Faith

I read Acts 8: 4-8 and Acts 8: 25-40 this week and it brought a few thoughts to my mind. 

Many believers think of sharing their faith with others as a scary thing (I know I do!). The example of a faithful witness can be encouraging and motivating. Examples like that of Philip found in the Bible can be a wonderful model for each of us to emulate (at least it was for me personally).

Philip brought the good news of Jesus Christ to Samaria, where people listened to him intently and many got baptized. But when God's directions redirected Philip to speak with one man on desert road, he willingly obeyed (Acts 8: 26-27). He considered what to say carefully and he used scriptures to direct the traveler to salvation. Whether he was speaking to large crowds or select individuals, his words ALWAYS pointed to Jesus Christ. I know that at the very least after reading this, the Savior is truly who all my words, thoughts, and actions should direct to also. 

Philip's words came from a life that had been transformed by Christ, and I strive to make that the same for me too. He understood that God's Word is the absolute ability for salvation. It is not our own eloquence that ultimately saves others, but His talent to open a heart to the message (His message). 

Now, as I tend to and approach different situations throughout my time, I try to be like Philip (for one). Try to recognize that the Lord will lead you to the people He wants you to speak with, but don't expect everything on a silver platter. It isn't like that for anyone, I think. This makes me think of Christ, the One who deserved the endless admiration and the "easy" road. He didn't receive that on this mortal world at all (particularly the end of His life). He died for me. He died for you. He redeemed each of us in our fallen state. 😥💓 --Sorry for going off on that tangent; back to what I read about Philip in Acts. This story shows that if we ask questions to open ourselves to opportunity, and courageously use what we learn in the scriptures from and with the spirit to explain the gospel in an understandable way, we should not be afraid to look deeper. When I did this personally, I was able to find more connection and explanation to the story. 

In this way, I am so grateful for my agency and the power to help my faith to grow, along with my Savior and the redemption which I receive through Him.

And I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. 🤍

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