If there is one story that is most often repeated by women, it is typically the story of their childbirth experiences. Put a few moms together in a room, and before long, stories of labor and delivery are being shared! Why? When a baby is born (although work and pain are often involved), it is a miraculous moment that fills a mother’s heart with joy. The experience of giving birth is unlike any other, and the love she has for that new child is unlike any other love.

Our spiritual birth into God’s family is a miraculous love-filled moment, as well! When Nicodemus came to Jesus by night seeking answers for his spiritual questions, Jesus told him, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). We know that Nicodemus was initially confused by this statement. But, Jesus explained to him that salvation is a re-birth—a spiritual birth.

When God commanded us to share the gospel with others, He invited us to labor for the joy of new spiritual birth. God performs the miracle of giving spiritual life, but He chooses to use us in the process. So, as this new year continues to fly by, how can we focus on laboring for the lost in these early weeks?

1. Look for Opportunities

When I was expecting, I noticed every baby and every mom to be. I had babies on my brain. Overnight, it seemed like the whole world was filled with moms and kids.

We should have that same consciousness of people around us. When you take time to look, you will see a lot of people who need the Gospel. Our communities are filled with people who are hurting.

While running errands, give gospel tracts. Participate in the organized outreach program in your church. Perhaps you have friends or fellow soccer moms who would be very open to hearing the truth of the gospel. Jesus shared the truth with Nicodemus, and with the Holy Spirit’s power, you can approach others with the gospel, too! We just need to look for those God-given opportunities.

And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.—Luke 14:23

2. Claim God’s Promises

Just like going through labor can be a time of nervousness and uncertainty, the idea of sharing our faith can initially seem intimidating, too. Thankfully, God has given us many promises we can claim: Here are just two to get you started:

We can claim the promise of His guidance. Perhaps you wonder who should you talk to and where should you go. God will direct you. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

We can claim the promise of His power. I love Acts 1:8. Notice the specific promise God gives to those who witness for Him: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

3. Keep a Record

When a woman begins prenatal care, her doctor makes a record of her pregnancy. The health care provider tracks the health of the mother and baby because that child is worth the hassle of keeping careful records!

Every person who expresses interest in the gospel is worthy of the same careful attention. Consider keeping a list of people you meet who need the gospel. Look at it every day, pray over it, and try to contact every person each week with a visit, call, or note. Their eternal destination is worth the diligence and effort.

4. Find a Partner

It would be difficult deliver a baby by yourself. It is (usually!) comforting to have someone like your husband in the room with you. Having a doctor to assist in delivery is always helpful, too!

I love that God sent his disciples into the world to spread the gospel together! They worked as teams to share the good news. Mark 6:7 says, “And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits.”

Consistently sharing your faith with an outreach partner will provide support, encouragement, and accountability. Not only that, but two people who are laboring together for the Lord can develop a great friendship and special bond as you see God working in lives together.

5. Remember the Basics

In the middle of labor, it’s easy to let the emotions and pain of the moment cause you to forget everything you read or prepared for (especially when you’re giving birth for the first time). The same can be true when laboring for the Lord. Sometimes, we just need to remember the basics. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you share the gospel with others:

• God is the giver of life. Noah preached 120 years, and only his family came with him into the ark. Your responsibility is to sow the seed; God gives the increase.
• The birth process can take time. It may take several visits over several months or even years for a person to be saved. Don’t give up and don’t stop praying!
• If the Lord allows you to lead someone to Him, you are the new Christian’s spiritual parent. Take responsibility for seeing them baptized and mentored in spiritual growth. Strive to be a good example and special encouragement.

As the routines of this year begin to fall into place, I hope that you won’t forget the wonderful love of God demonstrated to you in salvation. I also pray that you (and I!) won’t lose the wonder of seeing someone accept Christ’s love and experience the joy of being born into God’s family. Every lost soul is worth our earnest labor!

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.—1 Corinthians 15:58