Janurary 4

Meeting People Where They Are

Matthew 4:19-20

Come, follow me, “Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him.

The men our Lord called were professional fisherman. This call was about them leaving the life they knew and following Jesus into a totally new way of life. Instead of fishing for fish – they would be fishing for the souls of men. Jesus was going to train them in the skill and art of fishing for the souls of men.
As believers we understand that everyone is a sinner that needs Gods love and forgiveness and salvation – the people we minister to must be approached on the terms they can understand. I can imagine Jesus as He was walking beside the Sea of Galilee watching the men casting their nets into the lake. They were working and He came along and used the very example of their life circumstances to draw them and offer hope and a new life. It seems like the longer we are believers the less we think like unbelievers. Jesus is the great example of meeting people right where they are. As you meditate over your devotional today think about these few examples of how the Lord ministered to completely different people and changed their lives because He met people where they were.

When He was with fishermen – He talked about fish.
When He was with farmers – He talked about farming.
When He met a woman of a different ethnic background - He talked about what she understood.
When He encountered a rich young ruler – He talked about money.
If they were thirsty – He talked about the water of life.
If they were hungry – He talked about the bread of life.
If they were guilty – He talked about forgiveness.

Paul taught us this. Col 4:5

Be wise in the way you act towards those who are not believers, making good use of every opportunity you have. 6 Your speech should always be pleasant and interesting, and you should know how to give the right answer to everyone.

Blessings, Shaun