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And many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, "He told me all that I ever did." So when the Samaritans had come to Him, they urged Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. And many more believed because of His own word. Then they said to the woman, "Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world." John 4:39-42 NKJV

What a joy it is to have someone with whom you have shared the gospel embrace the message as their own. The people of the Samaritan city of Sychar first came to hear Jesus because of the woman at the well. But after they heard Jesus speak, they believed not because of what the woman said, they took Jesus’ words to heart and believed their own ears. Perhaps you have had a similar experience. You invited someone to church or you shared your testimony with someone over coffee. They may listen at first because you are their friend and they don’t want to hurt your feelings or offend you. But later, they start reading the bible to find out whether these things are so. Soon they embrace the message as their own. They believe not because of anything you have said but because they have heard Him and they know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world. Are you upset because they don’t believe because of your words? Of course not! You may plant the seeds or water them, but God always gives the increase. (re: 1Corinth. 3:5-9)

If you are one of those who looks to put notches in the handle of your gospel six-shooter, take Paul’s attitude as your own: For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus' sake. 2Corinth. 4:5 NKJV

"Today's Little Lift" from Jim Bullington

Comfort in Penitence II - Psalm 32 (11-23-10)