Stay Persistent in Love
If you've followed this series, you've learned to pray, share your story, offer help, and show respect. You've done everything right, but what happens when a conversation doesn't go well, or a friend rejects the church, or you simply see no results?
The final, and most essential, lesson of ministry is to stay persistent in love. Sharing your faith is not about immediate conversion; it's about sowing seeds, watering them, and waiting for God to bring the growth.
The Power of Patience
The world teaches us to expect instant results, but discipleship is a slow process. It took time for your own heart to open to Jesus, and it will take time for others.
Don't Give Up: A person's "no" today doesn't mean "no" forever. It might mean "not yet," or "I'm not ready." Your job is simply to remain a steady, loving presence in their life.
Keep the Door Open: If someone gets upset or pushes back (remember Post 13: "Be Respectful of Beliefs"), don't let that end the relationship. Circle back later with a non-faith topic, a simple act of kindness, or an offer of practical help (Post 11). Let your love be the thing that outlasts their resistance.
Focus on the Relationship: Even if a person never comes to Christ, you are still called to love them. Focus on being the best friend, coworker, or neighbor you can be. Your faithful love is a constant, quiet witness that plants seeds without pressure.
Rest in God's Timing
Persistence does not mean constantly nagging or forcing the issue. True persistence is simply faithfully showing up and trusting God with the timing.
Trust the Holy Spirit: You are not the Savior; Jesus is. The Holy Spirit is the one who convicts, convinces, and draws people to Himself. Your role is simply to be a willing tool. Once you've planted the seed, you can rest knowing that the Holy Spirit is now at work.
Look for Small Changes: Celebrate the small victories! Did they let you pray for them? Did they ask a follow-up question about faith? Did they agree to meet for coffee again? These small steps are signs that the seed is beginning to grow.
Stay persistent in your love, because that is exactly how Jesus has been persistent with you. Your steady, long-term witness is the most compelling proof that the Gospel is real.
