Colossians 4:5
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.
This is a short little verse but that doesn't make it easy. It is stated broadly. It is not simple, though.
Be wise in actions toward those outside of the faith. This takes discernment to know what is the right way to act to each individual person. It is not only about love. It's not only about truth. It is about sharing truth and love with those who don't know Jesus as their personal savior. It has to be shared sensitively and in the the right measurement with each person I encounter. Timing is crucial. That is something I learn by doing and making some mistakes along the way. It is something I learn by studying the scriptures and what it says about wisdom, action and relationships. It is an area that depends on prayer to be successful. Dependence on God's Spirit that lives inside each believer is essential.
The verse concludes saying to make the most of every opportunity. God gives opportunities to rub shoulders with those outside the faith. These can be co-workers, neighbor's, our children's friends, relatives and even the checkout person at the grocery. It is said "talk is cheap"but it doesn't have to be. It must be wise. A person who was "burned" by church needs a different approach than a woman who just lost her mother to cancer . Be wise but take the opportunities when God places along your path.
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