We delivered a bulb to a believer couple. It looked like a turnip. The box indicated the bulb would yield gorgeous colorful flowers! For the believer it's a picture of 'new life in Christ' and growth.
In Islam, there is no sense of growing, only greater compliance to the rules of Islam. In Christ...connected to the Holy Spirit there will be growth in "...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Galatians 5:22.
Remember Kamal from a previous post? While he responded to an invitation to follow Christ quite quickly, there was a problem...he wasn't convinced that God exists! Where do you start? I spent time with Kamal and we worked through some 'proofs' for God's existence--the amazing design of the universe, logically there has to be a designer, existence of moral laws, changed lives of believers, etc.
He is now reading the Bible. I gave him a quick tour. I showed him where to find the 'Tauret'(Torah), 'Zabour'/'Mazameer'(Pslams), and the 'Injil'(NT), names familiar to all Muslims. I suggested he start reading from the first book of the OT and with John in the NT. For comfort and encouragement to turn to the Psalms. I set the example by sharing something the Holy Spirit is teaching me from my daily reading of God's word. I want him to recognize His voice and direction as he reads.
Old Testament stories lay a foundation of the attributes of God for Kamal. He can see how sin entered the world and spread its evil effects on the whole world. Kamal already understands that there is salvation only in Jesus. He is encouraged by the pictures (click) of salvation through the whole Bible starting with Noah's ark. Lots of good stuff!
Kamal starts off praying in baby steps. He is learning a new kind of praying. "The main purpose of prayer is not to make life easier, not to gain magical powers, but to know God." writes Philip Yancy. I should add...and not to gain merit with God. My testimony of answered prayer bolsters his faith. I want to demonstrate faith-filled praying, not just 'safe' prayers.
I remember clearly one of the men who taught me God's truths was a passionate follower of Jesus. I forget what all he taught me but will never forget his love for the Lord and his desire to make Christ known. It went to my heart. Our western evangelical methods of discipleship are usually strong in truth--its about the head. This may or may not travel down to the heart.Discipleship of busy believer guys is sometimes like 'mini-refueling stops'. While not ideal, I've often met in Coffee Shops for a brief reading and prayer with believers. Kamal is super busy. So, I have snatches of time to befriend, study, and pray. It gives Kamal a chance to also share what he has learned so far. Beyond this, I'm cognizant of believers needing to take time to meet with brothers and sisters--to fellowship and find support in their new 'family'.
Dear Lord, help me to be passionate for you so that Kamal will be encouraged to walk close to you. Amen.
