Are Words Optional?

“Preach the gospel always: when necessary use words.” -- Saint Francis of Assisi

A recent blog post by The Voice of the Martyrs makes a very good point! I have often used this quote/concept from St. Francis of Assisi as an excuse to remain in my own comfort zone by not mentioning the Name of Jesus! Did Jesus Himself just use actions to preach the Gospel? Did Paul the apostle?

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. Romans 10:17

Anyone can be a kind or nice person, but what is the motive? If Jesus is not mentioned people are likely to glorify that person for the kindness, but it takes true courage and humility to give the glory and credit to Christ! Consider the words of John the Baptist:

"He must increase, but I must decrease." John 3:30

So take courage fellow believer! The Lord Himself is with us when we act and speak in His Name:

And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20


http://www.persecutionblog.com/2013/07/use-your-words.html

Is Heaven Boring?

People sometimes have a skewed image of heaven in their minds. They think that it will be a boring place of constant, slave-like singing or harp playing, while sitting on a white, fluffy cloud. That's not what God's word says at all!

God created pleasure, and therefore is no stranger to it! All too often we equate the word "pleasure" with sin, but pleasure is not sin unless it is gained in a manner contrary to God's design and intention for His creation.

Now imagine the most pleasureable experience you can have in this life... Guess what! It is nothing in comparison with what it will be like in the everlasting presence of the Creator of pleasure Himself!

You will make known to me the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy;
In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.
Psalm 16:11