Sharing Jesus Joyfully and Intentionally

Fresh Manna Devotions
October 3, 2025
5
min read

Matthew 28:18–20 (NLT) “Jesus came and told his disciples, ‘I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’”

When Jesus gave these words, He wasn’t only commissioning pastors or missionaries. He was speaking to every believer—ordinary followers like you and me. Sharing the gospel is meant to be a natural part of our purpose and prayer life. Yet we sometimes approach it as if it’s a heavy assignment instead of a joyful invitation.

What if we became intentionally playful about it—finding winsome, creative ways to plant gospel seeds? “Playful” doesn’t mean flippant; it means approaching people with the lightness and joy of the One who said His yoke is easy and His burden is light (Matthew 11:30 NLT). The gospel is serious, but sharing it can be filled with delight, curiosity, and creativity.

Practical Ways to Plant Seeds of the Gospel

1. Hold onto God’s promise of a ready word.

Isaiah 50:4 (NLT): “The Sovereign Lord has given me his words of wisdom, so that I know how to comfort the weary. Morning by morning he wakens me and opens my understanding to His will.”

This is more than a nice thought—it’s a promise. God Himself will supply the words that bring comfort to weary hearts. Each morning, focus on one verse and write it on a piece of paper or a card to carry in your pocket. For me, I send myself a text with my daily scripture (or manna, as I call it,) so it's easy and quick for me to pull out and share with others. You’ll be amazed at how often the Lord uses that very verse to meet someone else’s need. When you draw on His promise, you’re not scrambling for the right words; He has already prepared them.

2. Pray for open doors.  Begin your day asking, “Lord, lead me to someone today who needs to see Your love.” The Holy Spirit delights in answering that prayer.

3. Notice the problems people share.  Almost everyone voices a need or frustration each day. When they do, boldly and kindly say, “Let’s pray about that. If it bothers you, God cares!” In that simple moment, you plant a seed of faith and reveal God’s heart of compassion. (And they know who to come back to for prayer!)

4. Start with everyday conversation. Whether at the coffee shop or while walking the dog, ask caring questions. When someone shares a worry or hope, testify how Jesus gives you peace.

5. Use your gifts and talents. From gardening to music to coaching kids, let your interests become natural settings for gospel conversations. A simple comment like, “God’s creation amazes me every time I work in the soil,” can open a door.

6. Share your personal story.  People can debate theology, but they can’t refute your testimony. Briefly share how Jesus came into your life, transformed it, and continues to change your life through His word and prayer..

7. Celebrate progress, not perfection. Some seeds sprout quickly; others take years. Trust the Lord of the harvest (Matthew 9:38 NLT). Your part is to plant seeds in their heart and water those seeds by praying for them from a heart of love, knowing that when you do, God will honor that and work in their lives! In the story of the prodigal son, his dad always prayed for him. One day, the son woke up, thought about his father, and realized that his father loved him and was always kind to him. This realization prompted the son to return home apologetically and become a part of the family. God will work through your kindness and prayers.

Let's Pray: Lord Jesus, thank You for entrusting me with Your Great Commission. Thank You for the promise of Isaiah 50:4—that You will give me words of wisdom to comfort the weary. Awaken my heart each morning with the scripture I need and the courage to share it. Help me to notice when someone shares a burden and to say with confidence, “Let’s pray about that. If it bothers you, God cares!” May every seed I plant point others to Your saving love—in Jesus’ name, Amen!

Mark 16:15 (NLT) “And then he told them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.’”

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Timothy Burt is a pastor and author. He is best known as the author of Fresh Manna, a daily Bible devotional read in 228 countries (official and non-official) worldwide.

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