Bring Them Back: Devotions From Time of Grace MinistrySampel

HOW DO I DO THIS? SHOW RESPECT

One of Jay Leno's regular features in his television shows is called "Jaywalking." He walks the streets of L.A. with a mike and cameraman and asks pedestrians simple questions about U.S. geography, politics, and history. The audience shrieks with laughter to hear the ignorant and crazy things in people's heads.

We shouldn't be surprised if people have crazy ideas about religion too. If you are trying to draw someone back into the truth, you won't get very far if you ridicule things people say, even if they sound nuttier than a fruitcake. "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15).

That doesn't mean that you accept and agree with people's notions about religion and spirituality. What it does mean is that you show respect to a person and listen courteously. People will not give you a hearing if you have not first shown that you are listening to them.

People may respond to your invitation if they feel that you are real, caring, and honest. They will never respond if you have made fun of their unbiblical ideas.