How to talk with a non-practicing Christian

[NMHS]

Something that I have gotten better at over the years (thank God for that) but something I still struggle with is how to a talk with non-practicing Catholic or non-Catholic Christian. We all have friends and family that used to be devout, faith-filled christians that have drifted away. These brothers and sister believe in God and believe in Jesus Christ and either attend church, used to attend church or say, yeah I should start going again. But, by there actions you can see they have either drifted apart, are going through the motions, or are just a non-practicing but believe in Jesus.

I often feel compelled to ask them things like, how come you dont go to church anymore, or how has your walk with God been lately? But, for fear of messing up my words I dont, then I walk away from the conversation feeling like I should have asked them and I didn’t. Or as I walk away I think of ways I could have started the conversation but then I think why didn’t I think of that then.
I know God is telling me something hear I need to get over this fear. Again I am better than I was, but I should be better at it. Thanks, NMHS:thumbsup:

 

[idrum677]

I know many people like the ones you describe. We live in a soceity that makes it taboo to talk about religion…almost as if it somthing heinous. It is the same as out politicians who say that religion is a private matter and does not belong in the public forum.

I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingly power:
proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.
For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine but, following their own desires and insatiable curiosity, will accumulate teachers
and will stop listening to the truth and will be diverted to myths.
But you, be self-possessed in all circumstances; put up with hardship; perform the work of an evangelist; fulfill your ministry.
2 Tim, 1-5

St. Paul challenges us not to hide our faith, but to live and proclaim it, whether it is easy or difficult. It’s not always comfortable speaking the truth, but sometimes it has to be told.

Now, I’m not suggesting to start preaching chapter and verse to your friends and family, but sometimes it just takes a small comment or suggestion here or there to make someone think. Try using a relavent scripture passage when someone needs comforting or reassurance.

The biggest way you will have an impact is to live your life as a follower of Christ and not be afraid of your Catholocity. Just being an example is the strongest witness we can make. Don’t be afraid of making a mistake in your words, the Spirit will guide you.

God Bless

 

[Realist]

I often feel compelled to ask them things like … how has your walk with God been lately?

Is that how you really speak? I’d say the first step is to use concrete details and save the airy metaphors for people you know believe what you do.