October 1-3, 2010
1 Timothy 6
Pastor Michelle Hoverson
In 1985, I was the Director of Communications for one of the largest commercial real estate developers in northern Virginia. He was no Donald Trump, but he was successful, respected, powerful and given to strong opinions. I will never forget the day when he challenged my faith-walk, saying, “Oh come on Michelle, you don’t really believe all that stuff about Jesus in the Bible, do you? All that’s for old people and the poor. You have a brain. Use it.”
Standing in his impressive office, I had a choice to make: shrink away from my belief or stand and “fight the good fight of faith…in the sight of God who gives life to everything, and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession…” (1 Timothy 6:12-13)
Praise be to God, I chose to testify. With palms sweating, as best I can recall, I responded, “yes, I do believe it all and I’m praying one day you will too.” My boss quickly changed the subject.
Do you ever find it hard to admit your Christian faith? Based on Paul’s advice to Timothy, if we find ourselves in a situation where it is either embarrassing or dangerous to admit being a Christian, we should remember Jesus’ example. While testifying before Pontius Pilate, He made the good confession. When Pilate asked (see Matthew 27:11), “Are you the king of the Jews?,” He answered “yes, it is as you say.” Simply yet boldly, Jesus stood in His identity, even though it sealed His fate of crucifixion. Jesus was the “Faithful Witness” (Revelation 1:5) to the truth.
May the Holy Spirit, the giver of life, grant you the same courage.
In January, Pastor Michelle will begin her 10th year on the Grace Covenant Church staff. She directs global, regional and local outreach, while serving on the teaching team.
