Giving it All to Jesus

I would like to believe that when the time comes, I will be able to defend my faith and stand up for Christ, just like Peter believed that he would in John 13:38: “Then Jesus answered, ‘Will you really lay down your life for me? Very truly I tell you, before the cock crows, you will disown me three times!”

I can relate to Peter; at times I feel so weak, and even though the Holy Spirit may nudge me to say something at a situation, I will stay quiet.

One such encounter was when I visited my family in Turkey several years ago. My father, who had an immense distrust for religions but still maintained his faith in God, was lecturing to his audience sitting around the table. When he said he was against all religions, I thought to myself, “My faith in Christ is not a religion, but a personal relationship.” I did not have any problem agreeing with him. Then he continued to ridicule the son-ship of Jesus. “These are all made-up stories,” he said in disdain. I was caught off guard and was speechless. I could not say a word to defend my Savior.

I knew that any opposition or stating what I believe to be true would end up in a huge argument and then in insults to me personally and to my Jesus.

In The Hiding Place, Corrie ten Boom records the answer her father gave regarding her fears in the face of persecution:

“Corrie,” he began gently, “when you and I go to Amsterdam-when do I give you your ticket?”

I sniffed a few times, considering this.

“Why, just before we get on the train.”

“Exactly. And our wise Father in heaven knows when we’re going to need things, too. Don’t run out ahead of Him, Corrie. When the time comes that some of us will have to die, you will look into your heart and find the strength you need-just in time.

This answer is what I need to remember and not fret. The Bible says the same thing: do not worry about what you will say; the Holy Spirit will give you the words at the time.

God bless you and your loved ones!

Meryem Kennedy