Take responsibility

This morning, on my way to my Wednesday AM Hub Group, a question popped into my head:

What could happen if we each took responsibility for the spiritual condition of the people God has put in our lives?

Think about it this way: God has given you friends and acquaintances. Your kids play sports with them. You work next to them every day. You see them in the same checkout line at the store each week. You live across the street from them.

I believe that God has either put you, or allowed you to be where you are, in the relationships that your in, because he wants to use you to reach those who are far away from him.

I also like to say it this way: You are where you are on purpose for a purpose. 

But that means you have to take responsibility. So how do you do that?

It begins with prayer. Pray for your friends, co-workers, neighbors. Pray for each person in your circle of influence. That's where it begins. But don't stop with prayer. 

Next do what you can to continue to build a relationship with those in your circle of influence. Care about them. Get to know them. Shoot the breeze. Talk football. Talk kids. Find out about their dog. 

Finally, look for opportunities to share Jesus. This may be with an invitation to your church. It may also be you sharing how Jesus has helped you. God may even use you to let them know that Jesus died for them and rose from the dead. Actually, I think God wants to use all of you to help people move from death to life.

But that means you've got to take responsibility for the people God has put in your life. That's my challenge for you.