When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. (Isaiah 43:2, NIV)
The average round of golf in America takes over four hours. Add in time spent in the car, the parking lot, and the grill room, and there’s ample opportunity to have meaningful conversations.
Not just meaningful conversations but hard conversations.
How often has a topic come up casually that caused you to shut down? A million thoughts raced through your mind, but fear kept you from saying any of them out loud.
Oh, sure, the Bible is clear on the topic. But speaking up about what Jesus had to say about it might lead to an avalanche of uncomfortable moments.
We’ve all been there—likely more times in recent years than ever before.
Isaiah 43:2 (NIV) says: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
This is not a free pass from hardship! But it is a promise that He stands with you when you step into the fire.
We often think of this in terms of big-ticket problems, but small conversations plant seeds of significant consequence.
If the people of the church won’t stand up for God’s truth, who will?
Hard conversations about complex cultural issues don’t have to be combative. They can be as simple as a series of questions that prompt the other person to flesh out a viewpoint, setting up the chance to pose a different approach.
It’s essential to engage in such conversations with believers and unbelievers alike.
In Matthew 28:19-20, known as the Great Commission, Jesus says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
We are to disciple others, that is, spread the gospel of Jesus to those who do not have a personal relationship and also to those who do and are pressing into this lifelong journey of becoming more like him – holy.
So, let’s take on those tough cultural topics. Research them, and ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes and heart to His character.
Let’s step into the fire with Jesus and help each other become more refined!
PRAYER: Father God, we thank you for standing with us in all situations. We ask for your wisdom and courage!