Mouth - September 7th, 2008

Ps.89:1-2 - “…With my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself.” St. Francis of Assisi is falsely quoted as having said, “Preach the Gospel at all times and, if necessary, use words.” This shallow statement was concocted from several different things he said in many different contexts and it has become a rallying point for Christians who want validation for their fear of evangelism and disobedience to their savior. David articulately nips that in the bud exclaiming, “with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known…” No doubt about it there. Living a godly life is important, it is a powerful witness for Christ (1 Peter 2:12) and it is necessary for anyone who desires to live a life of integrity; if we say what we don’t do we are hypocrites. It is not, however, sufficient in and of itself; it must be accompanied by words. There are good people from all faiths and living a good life alone will never provide what someone needs to make a decision for or against Christ. Rom.10:14 - “How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” Remember Paul’s conviction (1 Cor.9:16) and command (2 Tim.4:2) in the context of Mt.28:18-20, Acts 1:8 and Col.1:28-29. I must live a Christ like life but I also must open my mouth; and why wouldn’t I, laboring with Him in His harvest (Mt.9:37-38, 1 Cor.3:9), is the most exciting adventure we can experience, growing closer to Him and seeing eternity impacted simultaneously in one event (Philemon Verse 6). His Great Commission, which starts with evangelism, is the task He has given us which makes the Christian life such an adventure. It is time to take the risk opening our mouths, sharing with friends, neighbors, co-workers, relatives and everyone who God has put in our spheres of influence. If you lack excitement, enthusiasm, energy and passion in your walk with God, sharing your faith will jump-start all of those. Take a risk. Get yourself into a situation where if God doesn’t show up your dead. Getting yourself into that situation starts with opening your mouth.