I don’t think well on my feet, but I excel at coming up with great things to say hours after a conversation has ended.

As a kid I read MAD magazine and enjoyed the regular feature called Al Jaffee’s “Snappy Answers to Stupid Questions.” (Example: Q: “Why do you want to marry my daughter?” A: “Oh no! That’s bad if you’re wondering too.”) I admired anyone who could be so quick-witted in real time.

I think my lack of confidence in oral sparring has hindered my willingness to talk about my faith. I’m happy to write about it or discuss it via email because I can take all the time I want to craft the best sentences and thoughtfully contemplate my responses.

But my lack of confidence in speaking about my faith isn’t Biblical or obedient. It highlights a general lack of faith on my part.

“We demolish arguments and every proud thing that is raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to obey Christ.” (2 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭5,‬ ‭CSB‬‬)

When God wants me to talk about Him, He promises to do the actual work behind the words. No one is ever going to be convinced of God’s love or even of His existence because of something I said. If there were magical words, He would have told us. It’s only by God’s power that hearts are changed and lives saved.

He wants me to participate by displaying my faith confidently, even if my words are flimsy and clumsily wielded. With God’s power, even my lousiest argument can demolish the enemy and win souls.

Dear God,

Thank you for providing all the power behind my words. Help me to trust you and to speak about you with confidence as you lead me. I’m sorry about my cowardice and insecurity. Teach me how to trust in your power, not in clever arguments.