take courage!

"The Bible is no mere book, but a Living Creature, with a power that conquers all that oppose it." [Napolean]

•   Everyday for about a year, I used to chat to the same lady on a commuter train on my way to work. She always came and sat opposite me, and as the year went by, I told her more and more about Jesus and the Bible. On my final day commuting to London, I bought her a Bible. I know she was touched by this gift, but I never saw her again. I often wonder whether she ever read it, and if so, whether she knows God for herself now.

•   This week’s challenge involves courage. Once you’ve taken courage, simply let God do the rest! You might have to spend some money to be a revolutionary this week, but in the grand scheme of things, what does that matter?

•   Take a moment to think of a friend who doesn’t know God, one you think probably has never read the Bible. When you’ve thought of your Bible, take advice from your Youth or Church Leader about the best translation for young people, and get down the shops and simply buy one. You might be fortunate enough to have another copy of the Bible just sitting at home. If you’re strapped for cash, give them that one. Translation is not a massive deal, but it helps if you can get hold of a youth version.

•   Then at the right moment, in private so as not to embarrass your mate, give them it, saying something like “Thought you might want to read this. If you have any questions, then let’s chat sometime.” You never know how this could revolutionize their life. They could find God through this!

•   It might be good for you to suggest a book to start reading from first, rather than your mate starting with Genesis and trying to wade through the whole Old & New Testaments cover-to-cover! Suggest that they start with Luke’s gospel and then read Acts [as they’re both written by the same guy and give a fantastic account of the disciples’ walk with Jesus and then the growth of the early church.] Take courage this week and give a very special gift to a friend. Pray about it first, and let God bring to mind the right person for you.