Unequally Yoked

Yesterday evening was very pleasant here in Oxford. With spring fully upon us and the days getting ever longer, we were able to take the kids outside for game time again this week. This is the first week that Jeff (our new game leader) has tried AWANA-style games outdoors. It was interesting, to say the least. There were a few trip-and-fall moments, but a good time was had by all. I myself took a spill in the grass at the end of the three-legged race while diving for the second-place beanbag in the center of the game circle.

I was running the race with William, one of our special needs clubbers. He is one of those kids who requires constant one-on-one attention; otherwise, he very quickly gets out of control. Since that type of supervision is not typically possible in the AWANA environment, he is frustrated and has a strong dislike of everyone and everything there. Over the past few weeks, having recognized the need, I have taken it upon myself to slowly develop a relationship with this boy during game time. It requires more diligence and patience than I possess, and I thank God for empowering me to take on this task.

The end of game time finally revealed that some progress is being made. When it was time for him to go work on his Bible verses with his leader, he asked me if he could work with me instead. I wish I could have said yes, but I had my own team to handle for the next half hour. For him to actually show preference and WANT to work with one specific person at AWANA is a very big deal. Praise God for softening the walls that this boy has built around his heart! Please pray for William, that in the coming weeks he will come to completely understand the path to salvation in Jesus Christ. Please pray for us in the AWANA ministry, that God will continue to empower us to properly reach these kids with the gospel.

This morning, as I look back on the experience of running that race with William, I'm reminded of 2 Corinthians 6:14 - "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?" Considering the difference in size between us, as well as the fact that we had to run the race with our ankles tied together, we were without question unequally yoked! However, Paul's intention in writing this verse was to consider the heart of those with whom you closely interact. If the other person does not possess a saving faith in Jesus Christ, you are unequally yoked. You must carefully consider if the activity you are engaging in will draw you both away from God or closer to God. If you will be drawn away, break that yoke! If, however, the activity might present the opportunity to share the gospel with the other person, go for it.

Let us as believers always remember to demonstrate our obedience, by carrying out Jesus' commands to us:
1. Love God. (Matthew 22:37 - "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.")
2. Love others. (Matthew 22:39 - "...Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.")
3. Tell others of God's salvation through Jesus. (Mark 16:15 - "...Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.")

This is why I volunteer at AWANA. It is one of the many ways I can show my love for God (by serving Him) and my love for others (by helping and working with them). It is also a great avenue for spreading the gospel of Christ to those who need it most - our children. ALL of them.

"...Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God." - Luke 18:16