This was originally posted on the blog 8ways2:
Sweat dripped down my temples as I walked under the blazing African sun, 10,000 miles away from home. I reached into my back pocket, grabbed my handkerchief and patted my forehead dry. Elder Mohale and I guessed the temperature as we walked to our next appointment. The humidity and heat was all worth it because we were on our way to help a man with his smoking addiction.
This is missionary work that goes hand in hand with a name badge and two years away from home. But the type I’d like to talk about is the missionary work you can do right now. Every single day.
Here’s 8 ways to be a missionary without even realizing it.
1. Be a good friend
The other day I was talking to a friend from a different church. I’ve known him for a couple months and had never asked about his religious beliefs. I felt the time was right and asked him about his faith. I showed genuine interest in him.
But guess what? I continued asking about him rather than blurting out a wrote response of what I believe or corrections to what he said based on doctrine I follow. That day will come when I invite him to come unto Christ, but first I must be a good friend who he trusts.
2. Practice what you preach
People watch us. Those outside of our faith most especially. They pay attention to what we say and what we do. The people that seem to radiate the most light are those who have integrity. I’m more likely to listen to what those people have to say. If you know the scriptures backwards and forwards that’s all well and good, but how are you applying it? Do people see the gospel in action when they watch you?
3. Participate in service
Serving our fellow men and women provide for countless missionary opportunities. Imagine if this happened:
John visits a family who hadn’t been to church in a few years. He asks questions and discovers they are in need of hours of yard work. He sacrifices time in his week to faithfully complete the yard work. The family gains trust in John and returns to church. Their children grow, go on missions and the world changes in a way John will never understand.
A story like this would be common if we serve those around us. “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” -Matthew 25:40.
4.Speak positively of the church
Do we find ourselves speaking for or against the church? I’ve heard those within the church who speak against the church and I see this as opposite of missionary work. Rather than inviting others to come unto Christ they are pushing them away with thoughtless conversation. How often do you get asked “What are you doing this weekend?” And how easy it would be to respond, “I’m going to church on Sunday and I’m excited. It’d be fun if you join me.”
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