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Millard Kinnison on March 8, 2024

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ies, we have spent most of the first two months focusing our devotionals on relationships in our marriages, families, and churches. However, we must never forget that God wants us to influence unbelievers lovingly. We always want to be ready to share our hope in Jesus as we treat unbelievers "in a gentle and respectful way." [5] We should bless and intercede for our lost friends as we demonstrate and proclaim God's goodness and grace. [6] We want to use our good influence to make disciples and help others learn to live obediently in God's grace. [7]

To help me live this way, I keep a mental note (and often a physical list of names) of unbelievers I frequently meet. I choose five to pray for each day, asking for help to recognize my opportunities to share my hope in Jesus with them. I seek to be aware of my interactions with waitpersons, clerks, delivery people, shop owners, and salespeople, praying to build genuine relationships. Simple kindnesses, notes of appreciation, generous tips, and other simple acts of intentional Christian graciousness have opened doors for me to share my hope in Jesus and lead people to give their lives to Him. God wants us to know that our relationships with unbelievers are opportunities we shouldn't waste!

[1] Matthew 5:14-16; Colossians 4:5-6; 1 Peter 2:9-11.

[2] Colossians 3:15; Romans 12:17-18.

[3] Matthew 7:12; Romans 12:18, 13:9-10; Galatians 5:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:13; 1 Timothy 2:1-2.

[4] 2 Thessalonians 3:11 NIV; 1 Timothy 5:13 NIV.

[5] 1 Peter 3:15-16.

[6] 1 Peter 2:9-11 — Also see this resource for more explanation of our role in 1 Peter 2:1-11 as God's priests to the lost.

[7] This is called "The Great Commission" and is found in Matthew 28:18-20.

TODAY'S PRAYER

O, Father, help me see the opportunities you give me today, and each day, to touch someone with Your grace in the name of Jesus. Holy Spirit, please infuse me with genuine kindness, gentleness, awareness, and respect for these precious people You have placed in my path. I ask to be salt and light for the good of those around me caught in decay and darkness. I pray this through the intercession and grace of Jesus. Amen.