Proverbs 9:7-8A

"He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot. Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee:" Proverbs 9:7-8A

Caution is the word! We have to be cautious in handling unbelievers. This is a point in which I have contemplated on a bit of late. How do you approach unbelievers?

My time was chaotic before I met Christ. Anyone talking religion or God to me instantly received an argument from my end. Those who tried to call me down or change my ways only fed the fire. People told me not to cuss, be perverse, or behave only threw gasoline onto the fire. My sins only flourished in view of their "righteousness."

I clearly remember the first time that I believe God tried to reach me. Revival was in full swing at the local church. The preacher clearly seemed to be talking to me when he called the invitation. He even walked over to me and put me on the spot. My sister and a friend of mine were flanking me. They were crying and begging me to accept Christ. I knew entirely too much of their affairs, wondering how they could promote this with all the junk in their life currently and consistently happening! Its hard to wrap your mind around when you know nothing of the Bible.

Ofttimes, lifestyles are detrimental to witnessing. It is key how you handle yourself, how you speak, what you watch, and what you do. The change must be consistent throughout your lifestyle, a true change in other words. Others will find faults if we try to hide them, for eyes are always watching. The brimstone and fire technique does not work. It has always caused me to buck up against the system. So, what do we do? Be a friend, a loving friend!! Show them the love which Jesus put into our lives and hearts. Love will work to melt their heart and the way of life will show the dark areas in their life. Light will show the shadows everytime. Allow the Jesus in your heart to do the work for the extremely hard cases. It is how God worked on me through people. Friendship works wonders! A life following Christ supplies a divine example that will provide the conviction needed!

kenny