He [Jesus] said to them . . . ,"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8 (NIV)
Are you a witness for Jesus? Empowered by the Spirit of God to tell about and show Jesus to your world?
In countries where Christians are persecuted, imprisoned, and murdered for their faith in Jesus Christ, people have invented covert ways to meet, signal each other, and keep snippets of scripture to encourage them. So far in the USA we can still discuss Christianity, but the current government is cracking down on where and how much we can say and do. Who would've thought that in the One Nation Under God this could happen?
Platforms exist in all kinds of arenas. Some celebrities frequently express their opinions on all kinds of things including their religious preferences. Some are conspicuously silent.
Many people believe actions speak louder than words, but without words to point to the reason for one's inspiration, talents, and skills, others just assume the gifting is self-induced or acquired. Christians know apart from God, they can do nothing. It figures when they do something noteworthy, they will give recognition to the One who made it possible. This won't mean they subtract the value of their hard work to achieve their goal(s), but it will mean they won't ignore the Source of their abilities.
Christians are instructed to welcome the Holy Spirit's guidance to share Jesus with the various people in their lives, to be directed at the right times to speak of their faith. If the Lord gives them a platform, it figures Jesus will be mentioned. When given that kind of exposure, individuals realize the spotlight will illuminate their faith and how they live it out in their lives.
A real witness points to the truth as they've experienced it. They answer questions about that truth. They demonstrate that truth, not flawlessly, but with conviction. Platforms are used to give glory to God, to be witnesses of His amazing gifts and generous grace. Does it mean they won't falter? No. It means they've seen what it means to belong to the One who created them, who died for them and rose from the grave to provide forgiveness for their wayward lives, the One who they serve with what He's given them, and who they hope they will showcase over themselves.
They have learned Jesus is the real deal. They have become His witnesses. Have you?
Father, thank you for each one who gives you all the credit for their achievements. We're all desperate for you. Apart from you, we can do nothing. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.