Simply Angie I hope this finds you as you’re starting your morning. I’ve been thinking this week about the treasure and responsibility we carry as believers—the incredible gift of knowing Jesus Christ and the hope of eternal life He gives. It’s a gift so precious and so powerful, and yet, sometimes, I find myself holding back from sharing the Gospel as I should.
Isn’t it strange that it’s often easier to share the gospel with strangers—and quite challenging to speak those words of life to people we know and love? Our friends, colleagues, and neighbors—those relationships are so close and meaningful that the fear of their rejection, or what they might think of us, can make us hesitate. Over the years, I’ve often used the following poem as a way to open that door—to have those conversations that matter most, even when I’m trembling inside. It’s a sobering poem, and it has stayed with me since I first read it as a teenager. Let me share it with you: My Friend, I stand in Judgment now, You knew the Lord in truth and glory, Though we lived together on the earth, You taught me many things, that's true, We walked by day and talked by night, Yes, I called you a "friend" in life, Reading this poem always challenges me to step beyond my fears and remember what matters most. It’s not that we are responsible for someone else’s decision to trust in and follow Christ—that’s between them and the Lord. The Bible says:
These verses highlight how God has revealed Himself through creation—so that all people have enough knowledge of Him to be accountable, even if they haven’t heard the gospel directly from another person. It’s a powerful reminder that while God does call us to share, the responsibility for each person’s choice rests with them, not with us. Yet God also calls us—commands us—to share His love:
I’m not responsible for anyone else’s choice, but I am responsible to share what I know. That’s why I’ve used this poem, time and again, as a conversation starter—a way to tell someone I care about them enough to get out of my comfort zone, to lay aside my pride and insecurities, and to share the greatest treasure I have. I don’t want to stand at the end of this life with regrets that I didn’t care enough to speak. What if I find out that, if I had simply asked, they would have received Him? I hope this challenges you, too—not to carry guilt or fear, but to see the beauty of the gift we’ve been given, understand the gravity of its importance, and find the courage to share it with those we love. Have you ever felt that same hesitation? What helps you to step out in faith? Let’s be brave together, and trust God with the rest. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below—I read every note! Blessings and love, Talk to you again soon. Can’t wait?
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Monday, June 9, 2025
What Kind of Friend am I?
