You Never Know

"No one has ever imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him". (1 Corinthians 2:9).

Imagine the day of Christ comes and you are there with the redeemed, although you may feel it's just you and Jesus.  He comes up to you and with a loving smile says, "I am so proud that you let me use you.  Because of you others are here today.  Let me introduce them to you".

The first was a neighbor who you didn't think even liked you.  "I was watching you", he says, "and because of you I am here".  It's not long before you are surrounded by a circle of souls: some you know, most you don't.  You will probably feel like Paul felt, "I am so proud of your faith".  (1Thessalonians 2:19).

Last night a friend came over for a Bible study with my wife and me.  One thing he said stuck with me.  "I live my life so that people who used to know me can now see that I am different and want what I have".  This tough looking Vietnam Vet bearing scars of this world loves others, and by his life testifies of the love he has for his Savior Jesus.  You never know.

When I was young in my life as a Christian, I was asked to teach a group of boys from across the tracks ages 10-11 that our outreach bus brought in.  They were poor and rough brought up basically like me.  I would find knives in their pocket and they would threaten me at first.  But in time I won them over and we had a good study time, I soon became a role model.

I was being taught Evangelism Explosion, a witnessing program that was to enable me to present the gospel to people.  So, I felt a good place to start was with the parents of my boys.  I asked Joey if it would be okay with his dad, Joe, a rough truck driver and single parent, if I came and talked with him.  Eventually we set up a time for me to meet his dad.  After introductions, I began to present the gospel to him.  He was very nice, but his eyes were glued to the television.  I decided he was going to hear the gospel one way or another, so I would move my chair between him and the television.

I got through and asked him to pray the sinner's prayer with me.  He wouldn't say a word but I prayed anyway.  The next Sunday Joey ran up to me so excited.  I thought this is great, I got through to his dad after all.  Joey looked at me with tears in his eyes and told me that he had listened to everything I had said to his dad, and believed and prayed the sinner's prayer.  With me.  He had talked to the pastor and was going to be baptized that morning. He wasn't the only one with tears in their eyes.  He smiled and said, "Teacher, I am a Christian saved by Jesus".

I don't know whatever happened to Joey, I just hope Jesus let's me see him in heaven and says to  me," I'm so glad you let me use you".  Joey and I will meet with smiles not tears.  And Joey will say, "Because of you I'm here," as we rejoice with our Savior:

"You Never Know"

Bill Clay   Phil Davis   Max Lucado