Faithful Witnesses: Leaving a Legacy for Christ
Reflections on A.B. Simpson's December 29 Devotional
"For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God." — Acts 20:27 (BSB)
In life’s fleeting moments, how often do we consider the eternal impact of our interactions? A.B. Simpson’s devotional challenges us to reflect on this deeply. What if every person we encountered—family, friends, coworkers, or even strangers—was divinely placed in our path for a purpose? Would our words and actions draw them closer to Christ?
Every Encounter, an Opportunity
Simpson paints a vivid picture of the early Christians who lived with an unwavering sense of purpose. They seized every opportunity, even in the face of persecution, to testify about Christ. Their focus was not self-preservation but Kingdom advancement. Standing before kings and governors, they didn’t plead for freedom but proclaimed the gospel.
This mindset stands in stark contrast to how we often live. Do we see the person beside us on the train, the cashier at the grocery store, or the coworker in the next cubicle as someone God has placed in our life to influence? Or do we pass through our days absorbed in our own concerns, missing the chance to plant seeds of faith?
Faithful Stewardship of the Gospel
Paul’s declaration in Acts 20:27 is a bold testament to his commitment: “I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God.” He was free from guilt because he faithfully shared the gospel with everyone he encountered.
This doesn’t mean every conversation must be a sermon. Faithful stewardship of the gospel begins with simple acts of kindness, genuine interest in others, and a life that reflects Christ’s love. It means being intentional about how we represent Him in word and deed, ready to share the reason for the hope within us (1 Peter 3:15).
Overcoming Hesitation
Many of us hesitate to share our faith, fearing rejection or inadequacy. Yet Simpson reminds us that every opportunity to testify is not about our eloquence but about pointing others to Jesus. The early Christians relied on the Holy Spirit to guide their words, and we are called to do the same.
Paul’s boldness didn’t come from his own strength but from a heart captivated by Christ. As we cultivate our relationship with Him, we’ll find that sharing the gospel becomes a natural overflow of our faith.
Practical Reflections
Are there people in your life with whom you’ve been hesitant to share your faith?
How can you start small—perhaps with a kind word, a question about their struggles, or an offer to pray for them?
Are you open to seeing interruptions and inconveniences as divine opportunities?
Prayer
“Lord, thank You for the privilege of being Your witness. I confess the times I’ve been hesitant to share Your truth, whether from fear or distraction. Fill me with Your Spirit, that I might see every encounter as an opportunity to glorify You. Let my words and actions reflect Your love, and grant me boldness to testify of Your goodness. May I live in a way that draws others closer to You and leaves a legacy of faithfulness. Amen.”
A Final Thought
To live as faithful witnesses, we don’t need to be perfect, only willing. The early Christians were ordinary people empowered by an extraordinary God. Their faithfulness changed the world.
Let’s ask ourselves: What legacy will we leave behind? Will those we encounter be drawn closer to Christ because of us? Let’s commit today to seize every opportunity to share His love, trusting Him to use our efforts for His glory.