If you can’t speak, shine! ✨✨

prairwarur: A devotional by Eric Celerier

A reader wrote what she felt was the biggest frustration as a Christian: “I work in a secular place where I can’t be open about my Christian faith. I only have rare occasions to talk about it with evangelical coworkers...So when I’m going through a difficulty, I feel very alone, all the more so because few of my church friends understand that the workplace can be a spiritual place, where we also encounter the Lord’s presence.”
The Bible encourages us to demonstrate God’s nature, His love, and His kindness... How can we testify of such a marvelous God in our workplaces when we don’t have the freedom to do so?
Matthew 5:16 tells us, “‘Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.’” (NKJV)
The Word is clear: our light must shine! So, does shine mean speak? Not necessarily! The Word continues, mentioning the “good works” that we do.
Beloved, when you can’t speak openly, reveal God openly. May the words of your mouth be encouraging! Refuse to participate in slander or bad-mouthing.
Be kind! That’s something different! It’s refreshing, life-giving!
Your coworkers perhaps won’t allow you to talk with them about Jesus, but can they stop you from carrying Christ into the midst of darkness? From demonstrating His love? From keeping a smile on your face, no matter what? Absolutely not! Nothing can prevent you from loving them, from blessing them, from praying and interceding for them in the secret place!
During this world crisis concerning the coronavirus, we have an especially powerful opportunity as Christians to exemplify the compassion and kindness of the Lord. People are searching for answers and are open to receive prayer!
I believe that God is faithful, that He can act and touch the hearts of others through your attitude, if not your words. So, God willing, they will ask you the “secret” to your peace and joy that defy circumstance. Jesus is coming soon!

Zanjan: The workplace can be a spiritual place if WE are spiritual. We don't need others to be spiritual with us. Our relationship is with God, Who has never left us alone.

Employers don't want employees to bring their troubles to work or spend time on personal interests while at work. That's how it should be. I've seen some Christians ignore that so it doesn't cast them in a good light. It's like no one has told them.

There are thousands of ways one can teach and worship without speaking. One's own character is the testimony. Nevertheless, the majority are suspicious that any character has cracks and expect they can be broken given the right means. It's easy to put on a public face so that's not the thing people trust.

This is why no heads will turn until tumult or disaster strikes. That's the only time one's true colours stand out. There's no better opportunity to demonstrate what God has done for you. When the storm hits and rocks the boat, be the one who walks on water.

Understand when people see that, some will love it and some will hate it.