AUGUST 15

1 Corinthians 3:6

                                            TEAM WORK

Cherry walked into the house more briskly than usual.“I’ve had it with her,” she said, pulling up a kitchen chair. “You’ve had it with who?” asked Mom. “Jolene - that’s who.” Restlessly, Cherry pushed the chair back and fiddled with a strand of her hair. She bit her lower lip before starting to explain. “Do you remember what I gave her for her birthday?”

Mom nodded. “You gave her a year’s subscription to the Christian Creation magazine. As I recall, you wanted to give her the subscription because you hoped it would be a witness to her - that maybe it would help her come to know Jesus.”

“ That’s right,” Cherry replied. There was still anger in her voice. “She was always reading my magazine whenever she was here, so I spent my pocket money to get it for her. Well, I overheard her telling some girls that I was pushing religion on her and that she hasn’t read either of the two issues that came to her house!” “I’m sorry,” said Mom sympathetically. “Let’s be sure to pray for her.”

“But she’s making accusations about me!” Cherry complained. “Some friend she is!”

“Honey,”said Mom,“it’s too bad she reacted that way,but you gave her that subscription because you knew she needed the Lord. She still needs Him, doesn’t she?”

“Well... sure,” mumbled Cherry.

“Don’t forget,Jolene has had only two issues,”said Mom.“ ere will be ten more months of witness coming to her house. Let’s pray that she’ll read those.” Mom paused, waiting for Cherry to comment, but she said nothing “You know, it’s possible that her reaction to your gift is partly because she sees her need,” added Mom. “You’ve planted the seed, but it’s God who must work in her heart. Let’s ask Him to do that.”

Thought: When you tried to witness, has someone reacted in anger? Don’t get discouraged or become angry in return. Continue to show love and friendship.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching me that patience is required when I share the gospel and that I must leave everything in your hands. Help to genuinely love and care for those I witness to. In Jesus’ name – amen.