My co-podcaster on Life Challenges, Pastor Jeff Samelson, once said in an episode, “We all want to stand for something, but we don’t want to suffer for it.” How true!

Jesus sent his disciples to do ministry with this advice,

“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” (Matthew 10:16)

Expect trouble because every heart has an evil inclination (Genesis 8:21). If you find living your faith is going well for you, you are probably doing it wrong. He reminds us,

Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. (Mark 13:13)

Our message of salvation through Christ sounds like nonsense (1 Corinthians 1:18). Our willingness to turn a cheek invites a slap on the other cheek (Matthew 5:39). In a world where hatred abounds and love grows cold, we become bait to the enemies of God. Simply put, expect trouble.

We embark on our mission with two simultaneous demeanors: shrewdness and innocence. It is not either/or, but both.

Another word for “shrewd” might be “clever.” The idea carries with it an intuition to know when to speak and when to be silent. Like a snake in the grass, it waits to strike. As we conduct ministry in the world, we need to see which tools are effective to build bridges to sustain a dialog.

Yet, in being clever, we demonstrate character. We weather accusations of wrongdoing because we are genuinely innocent (1 Peter 2:12). As a snake does not recklessly strike at everything passing by, so are we clever in managing the truth. We seek the right words to speak at the right time. Our innocence in doing so makes us approachable (1 Peter 3:15).

For years, we have shared with abortion-minded women the pictures of life at its earliest stages. It is a clever tool that, when used correctly, begins the dialog that leads to a discussion about the Creator of life.

The tools we use and how we use them often depend on our personality and reputation. Check out “Meet Baby Olivia.” I think many of you will find it a clever tool to demonstrate God’s gift of life in the womb. It is a worthy addition to our arsenal to protect life and share Life in Christ.