Start being strong:  One component of my Christian life that I have resolved to do is to openly ask a blessing on a meal no matter what the situation.   There are two things that you can think about that will make this an easy issue.  First consider that it is God that provided the meal for us and we should thank Him from a heart of gratitude.  Secondly, it lets strangers know immediately that you respect God above their critical thoughts about you.  Here is why this incredibly powerful.

 

They never say no.  I typically ask my meal guests in restaurants if they mind if we ask God to bless our food.  In all the years I have done this, no one has ever said no.  This goes for prospective clients all the way to adversaries with which I was attempting to resolve a problem.  They never say no.  How would it look for them to say, “no, I don’t want God to be any part of this meal.”  The Spiritual result is that you honor God and let your testimony be known.  The practical side is that you establish that you are not afraid of them or the loss of their business.  Want to know how many business books establish this as a power negotiating position?

 

You create accountability.  Phonies are easily spotted.  Even when its us.  That’s right we are phonies most of the time.  What we say about our relationship with God does not line up with how we live.  Most people recognize what we talk about and do and that its only mildly Christian.  When you risk what is usually seen as embarrassment for Christ you create a standard to live up to.  Accountability is powerful.

 

Being strong means doing good and resisting wrong.  Start doing good in simplistic ways that really identify you as a walker and not just a talker.

 

  1. Be strong because you can.  Take a tract along with your credit card to the meal.  Start with prayer and end with leaving the waiter or waitress a good tip and a good tract or church invitation.
  2. Becoming strong means exerting your will to do something over your fear to hold back.  The fear will soon go away as you face it.