Finding somone passionate about something besides their next Netflix binge or the re-emergence of Pumpkin Spice is not the easiest quest when you're working or going to school in a public environment. The overwhelming nature of disillusionment, doubt, and general disbelief floods most of my personal interactions and extends to my witnessing experiences. It seems like the mention of a Biblical illustration in a literature course falls on deaf ears, prayer is nothing more than boring words before a meal, and church is a location for select holidays.
Even still, I do not fear the apathetic attitude of my peers in these environments. I know that my passion communicates through the blocks of disbelief. Here are a few tips that have helped me break through disbelief in difficult environments:
Know Why You Believe
Why do you believe what you do? Is God real? Why does God let bad things happen? How do you know it’s real? These questions are often greeted by intense defensive emotions. But how impactful would it be if someone so passionate and devoted to God could simply express their relationship with Him as if they talking about a friend? When ministering to others in public environments, it is important to know why we believe, but equally important to is how we communicate what we believe.
Know Your Word
It’s interesting when people come up to me asking about random passages of the Bible. I’ve been asked on multiple occassions what Revelation is all about, not to mention the definition of sin or why Paul seems to contradict himself at times. Having the confidence to say "this is what the Bible says, this is what it means to me" and then explore what it means for them is where the real change begins. My friends and people I’ve reached aren’t saved by my Biblical knowledge alone. They are changed by experiencing the power that is contained in the Word. The Word that expels my fear, expels doubt of disbelief, and fans the flame of passion.
Light A Passion
Doubt breeds disbelief. Set your classmates at ease by showing them there isn’t a doubt in your mind that there is a God who saves. Greet them with a God who loves. Display his never-ending devotion to His children. Your passion is the key to counter culture.
We are praying for your in your efforts to GO and make disciples of all nations.