Ephesians 2:3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

Even as others is the interesting phrase here. It alludes to the fact that we have an understanding of how sin infects life. You can relate to others who are still caught in sin, because you have been there. You also know the way out. You also know the signs of fatigue that burdens a soul.

We had those conversations in our past. We know the language. We know what to listen for as a sign of willingness to hear the gospel, what words work and what words fail to reach a haunted soul. You have been there.

Philippians 2:3-4 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

One of the things that didn’t work for me when I was caught up in sin was a self-righteous attitude. Here in Philippians hints at vanity as being a roadblock to effective witnessing. Tell a drug addict; “I did it and so can you.” The result will be; “You don’t know what you’re talking about.” Tell a drug addict; “I was powerless to help myself.” The result will be; “I feel the same way.”

It is a confession of condition, you have opened the door. Now show them the Door.

Revelation 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

James 3:13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.

Once a month men gather together to break their fast early Saturday morning. It is a time for fellowship and testimony. We have had some really good testimonies but the ones that stick in my mind are the ones that touch my heart. Those are not the ones full of knowledge but rather filled with experience.

A good conversation served up with meekness of wisdom recounts what the Lord has done in your life. None of these men knew me when I was lost. If they had, they could see the real change in me. As it is, now that I have been among them for over a decade, they can see minor changes as I mature. Witnessing of even the smallest of improvements in character and quality lends credence to anything I might have to say about my past.

None of us will come to the fullness of Christ which is our final destination. That moment is reserved for our translation from this life to the next. That change will be more dramatic than being born again. Having been with the Lord for decades I know there has been slow and often painful changes. The flesh doesn’t like to die, but die it must if we are to attain to a witness that is true to who we are in Christ.

Philippians 3:12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

If we are captivated by His love, our testimony should reflect that love.