Too often we don’t reflect our joy and confidence in the Lord because we don’t see opportunities to do so until it’s too late. How often haven’t you mentally kicked yourself after the fact saying you should have said or done something?

One way to avoid this is to take a few minutes each morning to think about the coming day. See how you might have a natural opportunity to comment about your joy and confidence. In most cases, these comments should be brief. Brief comments can act like hooks. Hopefully they will bite and ask you a question or make a remark which enables you to continue the conversation.

Some examples:

• You or your family are facing a problem. You are pretty sure they will ask you about it. Think about how you could, in a natural way, mention the comfort you have knowing Jesus is watching over you. Have a comforting Bible passage prepared in case you have the opportunity to share it.
• The news is filled with world problems. Instead of joining in the handwringing, mention how you are not concerned because Jesus is in control. We’ve prepared a worksheet on page 34 of the Friends & Family Course Workbook all about verses that reassure us that God is in control.
• Mormons think they must do certain things to be worthy in God’s sight. When they thank you for something you did for them, you could say you wanted to do it because you love them. Just like you do good works for God: not because you must, but because you want to.
• They are struggling with a problem. Think of a Bible passage which applies. Share the wisdom of the Bible verse (without quoting it). If they like it, they might ask where you learned it. You could then mention the Bible. (One caution: many of the most comforting Bible passages apply only to believers. Be careful you don’t comfort them with a passage which doesn’t apply to them.)
• If you like Christian music, find songs emphasizing Jesus has done it all. Play the music when you are together in the car, etc.
• Display brief gospel messages. You could have a plaque with a Bible passage on your desk at work (if allowed). Or maybe your coffee mug has a gospel saying. Or you could print a Bible passage on the back of your business card. Phrases or verses which emphasize God’s forgiveness are especially effective.

If you aren’t accustomed to doing these things, they probably will seem artificial at first. Don’t let this deter you. Try them for a week or two. You will be surprised how natural it can become. Hopefully your Mormon friend of family member will eventually bite by asking a question.

We have created a set of brief videos talking about specific ways you can inject “witnessing hooks” into your conversation. View them here.

The great thing is when you take the time to plan on making Christ more visible in your walk and talk, the Word will also work on you and instill the very joy and confidence you want to express.

It is important to remember NOT to make comparisons with Mormonism at this time. All you are doing is sharing your joy and confidence in Christ. Period.