Do you have a consistent habit of giving thanks to God before your meals?
What about when you're dining with those who are not Christians?
Giving Thanks to God at meal times: Even When It's Challenging
I recall a time when I had a first time meeting with an unbelieving business associate. Sharing the Gospel with an unbeliever is a wonderful thing to do, and sometimes it’s best to start sooner rather than later. As we sat down to eat, I wasn’t sure if the conversation would naturally turn to matters of faith.
It didn't. Until my associate kindly offered to buy me a meal. I mentioned that I would be giving thanks to God before eating. To my surprise, he was completely fine with it. So, I prayed aloud.
To my even greater surprise, this simple act opened the door to a deep conversation about faith. We spoke extensively about what he believed, what the Gospel is, and how it applies to life. The meeting was pleasant, full of questions, and rich with Scripture. As the Bible says, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver" (Proverbs 25:11).
It amazed me how easily this led to a Gospel conversation.
Not long after, I attended another business meal, which, in part, was prompted by the businessman’s curiosity about the “Jesus is Lord” detail on my business card. Once again, giving thanks to God before the meal—just as I had done previously—this simple act created the perfect opportunity for a meaningful discussion about eternal matters.
A Challenge for You
Could this be a way God wants Christians to share their faith today?
If you don’t already give thanks publicly at meal times, I challenge you to start. When dining with unbelievers, why not begin with a prayer of thanks? If you’re able, pay for the meal as an act of kindness. Such a simple practice is so uncommon today in the UK (where there are few true Gospel believers) that it is likely to spark conversation. As Jesus said, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).
Share the Gospel
Even if the conversation on faith is brief, you can leave them with something to ponder. At the end of the meal, consider saying, “By the way, this is why I give thanks at every meal,” and hand them a Gospel flyer (order some free ones - up to 2kg per month - from us today!). That way, they leave with the seed of God’s Word in hand. As the Apostle Paul reminds us, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17).
Perhaps this could lead to another meal and further discussions - asking them what they thought of the message in the leaflet.
Have you ever tried giving thanks to God at meal times in the hope of such an opportunity? Share your story in the comments below!
Did you realise?
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