26 For the king himself knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely; for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him, for this thing was not done in a corner.
27 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.”
28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, “Thou almost persuadest me to be a Christian.” Acts 26:26-28 KJV
Almost persuaded.
Several years ago we were at one of our “go-to” campgrounds. It was quiet, the campground nearly empty, when the host dropped by for an extended visit at our picnic table. How our conversation got to where it did is a mystery to me, but the point is, we ended up witnessing to him about Jesus. I felt compelled to reinforce how much God loves him. And yes, life doesn’t make sense, and bad things happen, and we make bad choices that sometimes lead to bad consequences, but that doesn’t change the truth that God is a good, loving God and yearns to have relationship with us.
Jim was “on the line”. I could tell by his tender expression and quiet contemplative engagement with us that Holy Spirit was moving upon him. I could also feel his hesitancy. I sensed about him that once he’s committed to something he’s committed, which is good and proper, especially where relationships are concerned. In Luke 14:28 we are told to “consider the cost”, maybe that’s what Jim was internally doing. Not wanting to push, and feeling a window instead of a full-fledged door of entry, I asked him to consider what we discussed, he said he would; I offered prayer, which he welcomed; I gave him a ministry magazine that I had with me that he received.
We still go to that campground, but we have never returned to those weighty, spiritual conversations and I have yet to know whether he has made a decision for Jesus. I wish I had that assurance, for I know God was reaching out to him that day.
Are you one of those who are almost persuaded to be a Christian? I hope not. If Holy Spirit has moved upon you I hope that you will be wholly persuaded and open the door and let Him in. If you wish to consider the cost, do so; that is a good, wise choice. I ensure you that true discipleship is costly, it is also worth the price. If you are willing to embark on a relationship with Jesus, please say this prayer with me:
God, thank You for sending Jesus, Your only begotten Son. I believe that He suffered and died for my sins, that He received all the punishment I deserve. I also believe that he is risen from the grave and is seated at Your right hand, and is preparing a place for me with You in eternity.
I’m sorry for the way I’ve lived, for the things I’ve done that have hurt You and others. Please forgive me and come into my life. Lead me, strengthen me to the live the life that You have purposed for me. I know I won’t do life perfect, but from here on out, I want to do it with You.
Thank You, I love You. Amen.
Perhaps today’s post made you think of someone that is almost persuaded. Join me in a prayer for them today:
Dear LORD, You have called us to be salt and light and we are doing that. There are dear souls that You have brought into our lives to point them to You. We pray that we drop seed, water seed, shine on seed, and gather seed as You direct. Oh, my God, cause us to do no harm but only good to all of our fellow man, but especially to those who would walk this pilgrim path with us. May “you almost persuade me” not be heard in our ears, but rather a “Yes” for You.
Thank Your for Your goodness and Your faithfulness to us all. Amen.
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