Let's go outside

So let's go outside, where Jesus is, where the action is - not trying to be privileged insiders, but taking our share in the abuse of Jesus. This "insider world" is not our home. We have our eyes peeled for the City about to come. Let's take our place outside with Jesus, no longer pouring out the sacrificial blood of animals but pouring out sacrificial praises from our lips to God in Jesus' name. Hebrews 13:13-15 The Message

I find that God is continually challenging me more and more to step outside my comfort zone of 'safe Christianity'. I have no problems being in a public place, praying for and with family or friends who are Christians. For example if one of our children gets hurt at the park, prayer is almost always top of the list. I guess I have no fear of rejection from those who already have a relationship with Jesus.

However, for me, that fear of rejection strikes 'big time' when I am in the community and want to share my faith or pray for some one who may possibly not have a relationship with Jesus. What is the reason for this? Why, after all these years of being a Christian do I not always have the boldness and courage to speak out about Jesus? Why after all Jesus has done for my family and I am I still hesitant to share about His goodness and faithfulness in everyday conversations? Have I spent too much time in the 'insider world' and not enough time out in the world feeling the pain and desperation?

These are big 'life purpose' questions. I don't know if it is the same for you, maybe you have no problems speaking out about Jesus, and well done if that is how it is for you. For anyone else out there who has this fear like me, let's pray today and ask Jesus for boldness to speak out about Him. Let's remember that He is always with us. Let's remember that His Holy Spirit is available to guide our conversations. Let's remember to praise Him all day long. Let's remember that the gift of eternal life is the best gift anyone can receive and we need to help people hear about it.