Have A Plan

      I just finished talking with someone. We have said our goodbyes and I am now turning the key in the car ignition. Turning that key seems not only to turn on the car but to turn something on in my brain. As though someone dropped a ton of bricks on me, I realize that conversation was a perfect opportunity to start a spiritual discussion. Regrettably, I once again blew it. There is no way to go back and capture the moment. I sit back hoping for another opportunity.

      Have you been there and done that?

      When I examine Paul’s evangelism in Acts, I notice that he had a plan. He would begin by going to a synagogue or a place of Jewish worship. He would teach until they would no longer listen and then would go to the Gentiles.

      No doubt, his plans were altered sometimes. For instance, in Acts 17, while walking through Athens seeing the shrine to the unknown God provided an opportunity to introduce these Greeks to the God they did not know.

      Nevertheless, Paul seemed always ready to get the message out. How can I get the message out when I recognize all my opportunities too late?

      I must have some kind of plan. Clearly, I cannot plan for every possible scenario. However, some situations come up frequently. I need a plan to turn those opportunities into real discussions.

      Consider the following scenarios, which come up in everyone’s life, and see if you can plan to turn them into spiritual discussions.

      On Monday, somebody asks, “Did you have a good weekend?” Instead of saying, “Yeah, I guess so.” Say, “Are you kidding? This was one of the best weekends ever. Not only did I get some yard work done on Saturday, on Sunday I worshipped God with the Franklin Church of Christ. Were you aware …?” Finish the question with something you learned in the sermon or Bible class.

      At work, someone confides that they are having some kind of problem at home or some loved one is sick or has died. Instead of just saying, “I’m sorry.” Say, “That must be really tough to deal with. May I share with you what has helped me in similar situations? The Bible has pulled me through. In fact, I know some verses that will help in your situation. May I share them with you?” Or you might say, “I know you are going through a really tough time. I would like to pray with you about it. Do you mind if we say a prayer right now?” Then say a prayer with them right then.

      Think of other scenarios you face repeatedly and consider how you can make the most of your opportunities. Then keep your eyes wide open and have the simple conversations that may lead to great conversions.

Edwin L. Crozier