Private vs. Public

Scripture: So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. ... Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven. Matthew 10: 26-28,32-33

Observation: In the instructions to the 12 disciples before sending them out, Jesus includes this insight that juxtaposes those things done in secret and those done in public. That juxtaposition is this: Other people have a 'public' image but 'private' actions, and they often attempt to conceal their private side but it is known to God and cannot be hidden. However, for believers, we have a 'private' side that involves our relationship with Jesus, and the danger is we will try to conceal that in public as well, but we must not do that.

And - importantly - we should not be afraid of the opinions of others and persecution that will occur when we do reveal our faith, but rather should fear God and the possibility Jesus will disown us if we disown him.

Application: I find it interesting to note this insight by Jesus ... EVERYONE has a public image and a private life, and it is ironic that non-believers attempt to hide their evil, private actions by putting on a good public face, but believers will attempt to hide their faithful private acts of prayer and worship when they are in public.

Where is the logic in that behavior? Should I ever be worried about the opinions of others related to may faith, so much so that I would disavow Jesus? I would not do that, however I am not always overtly forthcoming in my belief, either.

I have learned that one of the best and easiest forms of evangelism is when I treat my faith and related actions as just part of my life. When a coworker asks "how was your weekend?" and I answer, "It was good, we had a really good worship in church on Sunday" or "I spent Saturday mowing the lawn and church since I'm on the landscaping team" ... all I'm doing is answering a simple question with a simple answer, but I'm really saying 'I believe in Jesus Christ, and I am open to talking about it.'

I must not be afraid of talking deeper, too. I should say more.

Prayer: Lord, I do not want to be afraid of anything in life. That is your most repeated command - do not be afraid. Please guide me daily in my words so I can reflect my private faith to all those around me, effectively for you.