I grew up in a church and under a youth pastor who pushed me to get involved in the lives of those around me. On Monday’s we would witness on the streets, targeting the homeless and on Friday’s we would go to nursing homes to hand out flowers and to talk with the elderly confined there. 

There were times when it was scary, like the time when I walked up to a group of twenty-something’s involved in a drug deal. But overall, it was rewarding.

When God allowed me to really connect with someone, it was very satisfying.  When I saw someone begin to weep when they heard that the God of Heaven loved them and wanted to be a part of their life.  When a lonely person confined to a wheelchair would light up simply because someone wanted to have a conversation or play a game.

I learned so much about their struggles and their fears by sharing with these people. But, as strange as it seems, I learned more about myself than I ever did about them.

I learned about my fears and how to overcome them.  I discovered the excuses that I liked to use to protect myself.  But, mostly I learned what God had put in me.

Because I was out on a limb and had to rely on Christ for wisdom and answers, I realized that God was always with me.  I understood that he had put a discernment in my heart to help me uncover a persons true questions in life. I learned that he had given me insight that went beyond my lack of experience that would speak directly to a person’s situation.

Even though I went out to benefit them, looking back it benefited me more.

Philemon v. 6 worked its mojo in my life. In this scripture, Paul says, “I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a better understanding of every good thing you have in Christ.”

He didn’t say that you should be active in sharing your faith because there are people who need you to share…but because you need to share.  When you share you will uncover good things that Christ has put in your life.  

That is what happened to me when I was growing up and it continues to happen to me every time I get out of my comfort zone and serve other people.  When I actively share my faith, not only do others get touched by the Spirit of God, but even I receive a great deal in return. 

It is really a great deal for all involved.