What does it mean to be a witness?
Because I could talk about this for days, since it is one of my biggest passions, I’m going to simply list what I think a Christian witness is, should be, is not, and why.
A Christian witness is a follower of Christ; this means?
o He/she tries with all their heart, mind, and soul to do as Jesus Christ exampled for us.
o Show respect for others, even when they do not deserve the respect
o Attempt to communicate effectively your feelings to others, attempt to not lose your temper
o Live your life in such a way, that people know you have integrity, honor and can give you respect, because you respect them and your God
o In public, if you do something which does not honor God, make an attempt to correct the problem, before those who witnessed you doing that action, saying that word or phrase of dishonor, coin you as a hypocrite along with the rest of Christianity. We are one body, if one part screws up and does not correct the problem, then we all suffer.
o If he/she is caught in a pattern of sin, and another Christian points this out to them (in a loving respectful manner), the person in question will prayerfully change their ways, and possibly seek help
o The actions and words you speak affect people, think about them, how will this action or word(s) affect the people around me?
o Update 5/5/03 Even when you are with your friends, family, at work, continue to show Love, encouragement, with your words and actions.
There are many different situations people can get themselves into trouble, where you might lose your anger, say something mean, do something wrong; but I can guarantee that if you are trying to honor God, and respect all humans around you, you will begin to live a life which honors God, and therefore you will be rewarded, maybe not here on Earth, but for sure with God.
I encourage any Christian to study the Sermon on the Mount (Mathew 5, 6 and 7). These are the words from Christ himself on how to live a life of honor, integrity and respect. They are not easy, you will fail at times, but the heart of the matter is your heart. Where is your heart, with God, with people, or with the world?
[Mathew 5:14-16]
You are the light of the world ? like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. Don’t hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.