Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Confident (07/05/07)
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TITLE: No Need To Shout | Previous Challenge Entry
By Amory Calcott
07/10/07 -
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ADD TO MY FAVORITES
I don't need a televised ministry with my name emblazoned on the TV screen. I don't require a 24-hour shortwave radio broadcast piping my voice into every nook and cranny of the planet. I don't have to write a syndicated newspaper column, or be a best-selling author. Yes, there are people who do these things, and that's wonderful for them.
But I prefer the path of quietude.
There's no reason for me to club people over the head with my beliefs. I don't have to insist that I'm right all the time, nor do I have to stand on a public street corner waving a sign stating that my assumptions are right, and all others are automatically wrong.
Instead, I take refuge in the quieter side of life.
When my neighbor comes by for tea, or the postman says "Hello," I can simply give a smile. With that smile, I radiate the confident, quiet assuredness of my Christian faith. Inside that smile lies the love of Christ. No condemnation, because it is not my place to condemn, but simply a smile. A smile that says, "I love you, and I'm genuinely glad to see you." Perhaps it even says, "How may I be of Christian service to you today?"
In a world of screaming tirades, and "me-first" opportunism, it takes great confidence to remain quiet. But because my faith is sure, there's no need for me to be loud and abrasive about it. Outdoors, I see reeds swaying near a pond; they are serenely quiet, but bear as much testimony to the Creator as any roaring sermon has ever managed. I cannot hear the stars, but don't need to in order to experience them with a sense of complete reverence for the Creator of the universe. Some of the most awe-inspiring things in this world, the things which most strongly point toward the majesty of God, are also among the most silent.
Faith can be a very quiet thing.
And sometimes, it's at its most confident when it is.
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My weakness and running away is to hole up in my house - my call is public and up front leading worship - but it is not 'better' or 'bigger' than your quiet confidence. I thank God for my friends who walk the same path you're on - they minister to me even as I minister to them when I am faithful to my function in the body.
Bless you and keep pressing in to your call - it is much needed
Also, this is a very well written piece!