Sometimes we just can't give up! Okay, when it comes to someone's eternal destination we must never give up. God puts all the pieces together. He may call us to share a word of the gospel with someone who is lost, or He may just want us to live a consistent life before them so they will see that the gospel does make a difference, or God is calling us to pray for their salvation. This week I want to share a word of encouragement to all of us about not giving up on someone's salvation.
The first came two and a half weeks ago when I got the news that my Uncle Robert died. He was a bachelor and one of our favorites. He loved the outdoors and took every opportunity to take one of us fishing, hunting, or trapping. I learned a great deal around him and loved every visit he made. The only struggle I had through the years is that he didn't know Christ. On many occasions his mom, sister and brothers would witness to him, they consistently lived Christ before him and always prayed for his soul. When I got the news of his death my greatest fear was that he went off to meet God in judgment and condemnation. My brother told me this week that a pastor who was connected to our family had gone to visit him recently. After sharing the beautiful, life-changing gospel Uncle Robert said, "Yeah, I can do that."
The next story comes from Bascom Ford's brother, Harry. Harry died a week ago. The family didn't know for sure if he believed before his death. For those who have found themselves in this situation you know how difficult it is. Bascom called me Sunday night and told me Harry's story. Pastor Joey Burnett of Arcadia First Baptist Church shared Sunday morning that he and Harry's old boss, Leroy, went to make a visit on Harry on a Monday night. They shared the gospel and Harry accepted Christ.
Both of these stories brought peace and encouragement to their families. Their lives were very similar...both men were quiet, bachelors, came from large families, and were very kind. The most exciting similarity was that they both believed before they died.
It just goes to show that we must never give up! Paul wrote that some get to plant the seed and some water it, but it is the Lord who brings in the harvest (1 Corinthians 3:6). Who is important? Neither and both (vv. 7, 9). Ultimately God is the One who counts because He is the One who saves. It is our honor to be a part of the process of someone's salvation. So, don't give us on those whom God has placed in your life who are yet unsaved...keep planting and keep watering!
Grace & Peace,
Scott
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