Lets look closely at each part of this scripture, considering them as steps in effectively proclaiming Jesus. I didn t remember my conversations with them, but Julie remembered everything that had been said. She sees all our neighbors as important people in God s sight. This prepared her for the second step. Because Julie had prayed for our neighbors and listened to them, she was much more alert and watchful for opportunities to connect with them.
People are more likely to listen to friends than to strangers.
There is much less anxiety in our encounters with neighbors and strangers when we acknowledge and give thanks to God for preparing the hearts of others to hear about Jesus. Consider that the Holy Spirit is always nudging people to draw closer to God. We may just be the right person at the right time that others choose to approach as they seek God. When we are open to this possibility, encounters with others are much less threatening. Go for a walk in your neighborhood and pray as you walk along, letting the Holy Spirit nudge you about how to pray for your neighbors.