Living Evangelistically

Actions speak louder than words, don’t they? Not that words are unimportant in the evangelistic task. But our actions are very important, especially before those who are skeptical towards Christianity.

The world expects believers to be generous with their goods. It expects churches to run programs that help the poor and disadvantaged. But it is often surprised by the unexpected. Giving our time, our very selves—through hospitality, for example (and as we've already considered)—is a great example of the unexpected. Christ-like generosity makes people want to know what makes us different.

In Surprise the World, author Michael Frost commends the habit of intentionally blessing others. The world doesn’t expect to see church bodies living like healthy, happy and lavishly loving families, each member building the other up. Nor do they expect to experience people blessing them, with no expectation of any gain in return.

But how do we bless others? In its historical development, part of the meaning of “to bless” was “to add strength to another’s arm.” This would involve relieving another’s burden. It could also include alleviating his or her distress, or even lifting his spirit, bringing comfort or cheer.

Frost identifies three ways to bless others. The first is through words of affirmation. Mark Twain once said, “I can live for two months on a good compliment.” It’s been said that a word of encouragement is like oxygen to the soul. Words of affirmation can be described as verbally communicating love. They include not only words meant to build up, but also words of compassion and empathy. “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver (Prov. 25:11).” Good old fashioned letters, phone calls, or even text messages are good ways to bless with such words.

Two other ways would be acts of kindness and gifts. So who might you reach out to, to “strengthen their arm,” or take a small load off their shoulders? Could you help a church member or neighbor with a repair project, or provide a dinner for a busy mom? What a kind and thoughtful act! Doing such things for others strengthens bonds, adds joy to the world and shines Christ’s light. Gift-giving does the same, particularly if the gift is random or unexpected, and thoughtfully selected. A gift is a lasting, tangible symbol of thoughtfulness and love.

Blessing others reflects the heart of our gracious God. It’s a powerful witness in a world of people turned inward upon themselves. But since we’re not naturally generous, how great is our need to abide in Christ, the generous One, and to look to Him prayerfully for willingness and desire? Our disinclination to bless also means that we need to build it into a habit in our lives—so that it becomes almost automatic. And so I like Frost’s concrete suggestion of determining to bless at least three people each week. Goals help us to measure and achieve—so why not set this goal in your life? (Or, make it one or two per week to start out with.) Turn it into a fun game, and after some practice include at least one unbeliever among the recipients. Pray a lot as you do and you will see God work!