One of the (many) excuses I make for not talking to people about Jesus (other than what do I say) is “what if they say ‘no!” - Paul has an answer to that, the gospel message is used by God to ‘test hearts’.  That means that some might not be ready to accept it yet, and it’s not our fault or our responsibility.  But it’s also a longer-term thing than just telling them once and giving up, it’s a journey, it’s words, actions.

Look at how he phrases it in numerous ways and the language he uses which is quite beautiful - “like a nurse tenderly caring for her own children,” “you were dear to us,” “like a father with his children,” “urging and pleading” - these are words of someone who deeply cares for those around him that he preaches (and demonstrates) the gospel to. 

It’s also about how they behaved in their day-to-day life - they worked hard, watched what they said and did, knowing they are examples to be followed, people to be imitated.  That’s a big ask, but if we do fall short, we need to demonstrate humility and show that we are sorry and show them how someone forgiven by God behaves. 

It says “they shared themselves”, which must have meant they were vulnerable and real with them.  How refreshing, we don’t need to be perfect, we need to be ‘real’ telling those around us that life isn’t going to be magically made easy by following Jesus, but the reward of submitting our lives, turning away from sin and trusting that Jesus has taken the punishment for all we’ve ever done is worth it.

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Questions:

Is there someone in your life you’re demonstrating the gospel to.  Is there something different you can do this week to encourage them or show them Jesus?  Are you setting an example to those around you to be imitated?

Prayer:

Jesus, please help me to set an example to those around me, nurse the words that I’ve been planting and to show them that they are dear to me and to you.  Please help my actions to be imitation-worthy.  Amen.