The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

1 Thessalonians 2:13, “And for this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received from us the word of God’s message, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the Word of God,”

Two of the most overlooked, underworked words in the English language are the words, “Thank you.” While Rose Marie has been for some weeks in the Jamestown Rehab, I have heard those two words quite often. And always the staff responded with “You’re welcome.”

When we witness and other people come to faith in Christ, we should always say “Thank You” to God. For the power of the witness we give comes from Him; it is not from us. Sometimes, however, we neglect to witness as we ought. How should we go about witnessing? First, our lives should be lived for Him. How we speak (the language we use); who we fellowship with at work and outside of work; where we go; what we do; how we behave –all of that is a silent witness.

Witnessing more directly need not be difficult. What I call it “the second step” in witnessing is doing something for someone simply out of love. It may be helping a friend without their asking. It may be sharing time or effort or even money with someone who has a pressing need. When they ask (as they surely will) why you’re doing it, you can say, “I just felt that the LORD wanted me to help you in this way.” Then, depending on how the person reacts, you might say, “That’s what the LORD Jesus teaches us to do for our neighbors.”

One of the greatest hindrances to witnessing is simply believing that you will be asked a question you cannot answer. More often than not, the one who would ask the question knows far less than you. Give them your personal testimony. Tell them how you became a believer in Jesus Christ. After sharing your story, simply ask them if they’ve ever had an experience with Jesus Christ. Don’t be surprised if they respond with “No, but I’d sure like to have! How do I do it?”

First, he must recognize that he is a sinner as he stands before God. The Bible says we must repent of our sin. Repentance is admitting to being what God’s Word says we are. Repentance is a change-of-mind and of authority. He acknowledges that he’s not what he ought to be, but wants to be. God can affect the change in his life. Pray with him; lead him to pray to God, asking forgiveness and committing his life to Jesus Christ.

Then pray again and each of you thank Christ for saving him. Then get him into the Bible (New Testament).

Get him into a good Bible-preaching church. “Faith comes by hearing; and hearing by the Word of God” (Rom. 10:17).

Oh, there’s more! But there’s unlimited joy in leading someone to faith in Jesus Christ! The only failure there is is the failure in witnessing. The LORD is in charge! He wants us to witness, but it’s His power that works in the heart and soul of the unbeliever. Don’t be afraid! He’s leading you and will be with you all the way!

We will be praying for you,

Nana & Dado III

(Rose Marie & Gene)

P. S. Rose Marie is scheduled to come home tomorrow! We are excited! There are some added steps to take,

but the LORD has led us this far, and He will continue to lead! Thanks for your continuing prayers.

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

United States of America

“We never know that God is all we need

until He becomes all that we have.”