Baby Steps

Bible Reading: Colossians 4:2-6

William watched as little Jackson slowly walked toward his mother’s outstretched arms. “How’s Jack’s walking coming along?” he asked his mother.

“He’s doing quite well—watch this. Come here, Jacky!” Mom cooed, encouraging Jack to walk to her. He giggled and slowly stepped closer and closer until he was in his mother’s arms.

“That’s pretty cool! Looking good, Jack,” William said. Then he sat down on the couch and sighed.

“Is something wrong?” Mom asked when she noticed William’s downcast face.

“I don’t know. I just can’t seem to get through to Alex.”

“Who’s Alex?” Mom asked.

“He’s a new kid at school. I’ve been trying to get him to trust Jesus as his Savior, but he won’t budge. I don’t know what to do.”

“Maybe you should take a lesson from Jack,” Mom suggested.

“What do you mean? I’m not learning how to walk!”

Mom smiled. “No, but you’re learning how to share God’s love with others. Do you notice anything special about the way Jack is walking?”

William studied his little brother as he slowly walked from the couch to the chair. “His legs are a little wobbly. Is that it? I’m a wobbly witness for Jesus?”

“Actually, I was referring to the size of Jack’s steps,” Mom replied. “He falls down at times, and yes, he is a little shaky on his feet, but he just takes one little step at a time until he achieves his goal. It’s the same with sharing Jesus with others. Instead of walking up to Alex and asking if he’d like to pray and ask Jesus into his heart, start small. Start by being friendly and kind. After a while, ask him if he’d like to come to church with you. If he gets to know you as a friend and sees what a difference Jesus makes in your life, he might want the same thing for himself. Just take it one baby step at a time.”

William thought for a moment. “That’s a good idea. Can I ask Alex to come over to play my new video game tomorrow night?”

“Of course,” said Mom. “That’s a good first step.”

William smiled. “Thanks, Mom. And thank you too, Jack!” Elena Ketner

How About You?

Do you sometimes get carried away in your witnessing attempts? Have you ever scared someone away from wanting to be around you and learn about Jesus? It’s important to share God’s love one step at a time. Start by reaching out to others in friendship. As you get to know them and show them kindness, they’ll experience God’s love in their lives.

Today’s Key Verse:
Colossians 4:5 Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Witness one step at a time