Have you ever been visited by the Jehovah Witnesses? This week I was visiting with a friend when my doorbell rang. I could see two ladies standing outside my door and knew they were either Jehovah Witnesses or Mormons. I must confess I used to avoid answering the door when they would come around. I was uncomfortable with their pitch and didn’t know how to respond. What if I couldn’t answer their questions? What if I said the wrong thing? If I don’t know what they believe, how will I defend what I believe?
God spoke to my heart and told me I didn’t have to know what the Jehovah Witnesses believe or what the Mormons believe. I simply need to know what I believe and be able to state why I believe what I believe. 1 Peter 3:15 says “but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you; yet with gentleness and reverence.”
This time I was ready. I told my friend to pray and I went to the door. The ladies were very pleasant and introduced themselves. One lady did the talking while the other stood back. She began by telling me “Don’t you think it is difficult to find people to trust today? You can’t always trust your doctors or people in business. Unfortunately, you can’t even always trust your spouse.” I looked at her and smiled and said, “But you can always trust Jesus.” Immediately, the lady speaking with me began to tremble. She changed gears and pulled out a Watchtower magazine and told me it made reference to “my Bible” and talked about how we could determine what was trustworthy. She offered me a copy of it. “No, thank you,” I replied. “I have the Word of God which is very trustworthy. I also have Jesus in my heart and He guides me and directs me so I know who to trust and who not to trust; however, I’d love to pray for you if that would be okay.” She and her friend started backing up. “Right now; you want to pray right now?” It was obvious I had stumped her. “Why not? You’re here and I here.” She stammered a bit and then said, “We have to go. We have a lot of doors to knock on, but thank you.” And they turned and practically ran away. I couldn’t help but think of James 4:7 that says “Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and will flee from you.”
God affirmed to me that morning it is my responsibility as a believer in Christ to know what I believe and be prepared in season and out of season to share [2 Timothy 4:2]. If someone knocked on your door today, would you be ready? If not, ask the Lord to provide what you need to walk your faith out in confidence. He’s ready and waiting.