Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us. (Titus 2:7-8)
“Your life as a Christian should make non-believers question their disbelief in God.” Letters and Papers from Prison.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer
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We have all played with the golfer who thinks they were treated unfairly when their drive lands in the rough; when their iron shot lands too firmly on the green and then rolls down a hill on the other side; when their bunker shot does not quite get out of the trap; when their chip comes up woefully short; or when their putt rims out. We have all had similar results. That is just the give-and-take of this wonderful game.
But how have we responded? Have we accepted the outcome, maybe learned from it, and looked forward to the next shot? Or have we acted like a mule and, perhaps, taken the Lord’s name in vain, thrown the offending club, used a choice curse word, or even gotten mad at a playing partner?
My wife has a wonderful disposition. On the golf course, her demeanor is reflected by: “We are not getting paid to do this.” Sure, we all want to do well, hopefully bettering our handicap with each outing.
But in the grand scheme of things, what significant difference will it make one way or the other after we leave the golf course?
Here is a scenario worth thinking about: You are playing with a non-believer. Will they be more inclined to admire your approach to life if you enjoy the round and help others enjoy it, or if you are solely focused on scoring well and beating others in the foursome?
Might they not wonder why you are so comfortable in your skin? Might they not even inquire about the reason for that? What a thrill if they do ask you about your faith.
But there are two parts to this: They ask, and you answer. This poses the next question: Can you provide a meaningful and heartfelt response? But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and be ready always to give an answer to every man who asks for a reason of the hope that is in you. (1 Peter 3:15)
Your answer should not be scripted. Although it needs to be well-considered, it needs to be your answer, not someone else’s. Why are you comfortable believing in Jesus? And how does that influence the way you try to lead your life? Note the phrase ‘try to lead.’ We all fall short of perfection. But we can strive to be righteous in our actions.
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:8-9)
It is our belief in Him that assures us that we will spend eternity with Him.
Prayer: Lord, let me be a reflection of You, always a possible introduction and escort to You. May my behavior generate a desire in others to find the peace that only resides in believing in Jesus as our Savior.