FRESH ENCOUNTERS WITH CHRIST
That which we have seen and heard we declare to you,
that you also may have fellowship with us;
and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.
And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.
1 John 1:3-4
John the apostle never ceased to marvel at the life-changing relationship he enjoyed with his Lord. It overwhelmed him to know that the God of the universe chose to have fellowship with him, a simple fisherman. John was so overjoyed that he earnestly wanted to share his joy with others so they could also experience the same joy. A special fellowship or “bonding” developed between those who had personally experienced fresh encounters with Christ as they rejoiced together at God’s goodness to them.
The Dont’s
Those around you desperately need to be encouraged by your latest encounter with Christ. Some have lost hope that they can experience the reality of God’s presence in their lives. Consequently, the people in your life don’t need your philosophies or theological speculations. They don’t need to hear your opinions on what they should do. They don’t need you to try to convince them of the reality of God.
The Do’s
Instead, the people in your life do need you to simply bear witness to what your Lord has said and done for you. They do need to hear from someone who has just come from a personal, life-changing encounter with the living Christ. They do need to see the change in your life, and that will be your greatest testimony of your relationship to Christ. There is nothing more appealing or convincing or hope-giving than to hear from someone who has just been with Jesus.
As you pray today, think about your last fresh encounter with Christ. Take a moment to thank Him for His fellowship with you! Then consider how that encounter might enrich, encourage, or inspire someone in your life, and ask for His guidance in sharing your experience with others. Amen.
Source:
“Experiencing God Day-By-Day; The Devotional and Journal”, by Henry T. Blackaby and Richard Blackaby ©1997. Entry April 4.
Additional Reading:
Let Your Light Shine
Confident Hope