• You Can Witness Informally!
    Kingdom Ministry—2010 | August

    • 3. What can help us to overcome shyness?

      3 Getting Started: Many of us find it difficult to start conversations with strangers. Even with regard to acquaintances, bringing up the truth may seem a bit awkward. We will be motivated to speak up, however, if we meditate on Jehovah’s goodness, the spiritual treasures he has given his servants, and the dire condition of people in the world. (Jonah 4:11; Ps. 40:5; Matt. 13:52) In addition, we can ask Jehovah to help us ‘muster up boldness.’ (1 Thess. 2:2) One Gilead student said: “I have often found that prayer helps when it is difficult for me to talk to people.” If you are hesitant to speak, say a brief, silent prayer.​—Neh. 2:4.

      4. What goal might we initially set for ourselves, and why?

      4 As the name suggests, informal witnessing does not require that we begin the conversation with a formal introduction or a scripture. We may find it helpful to have the goal of simply starting a conversation without feeling that we must give a witness right away. Many publishers report that accomplishing this step gives them the confidence they need to introduce the good news eventually. If the person does not wish to converse, there is no need to force the issue. Politely conclude the conversation and move on.

      5. What helps one shy sister to witness informally?

      5 While shopping at the market, one shy sister first makes eye contact and offers a friendly smile. If the person smiles back, she makes a brief comment. If the person responds favorably, this gives her the confidence to converse further. She listens carefully and tries to discern which aspect of the good news would appeal to the person. Using this approach, she has placed much literature and even started a Bible study.

      6. How might we start a conversation in an informal setting?

      6 Initiating Conversations: What can we say to initiate a conversation? When Jesus conversed with the woman at the well, he started by simply requesting that she give him a drink. (John 4:7) So perhaps we can start a conversation with a friendly greeting or question. As you talk you may find an opportunity to introduce a Scriptural thought and perhaps plant a seed of truth. (Eccl. 11:6) Some have found success by making an intriguing statement that arouses curiosity and prompts an inquiry. For example, while waiting to see the doctor, you may spark a conversation by saying, “I’ll be glad when I won’t get sick anymore.”

      7. How will being observant help us to witness informally?

      7 Being observant will also help us to strike up conversations. If we observe a parent with well-behaved children, we might commend the parent and ask, “What has helped you to be a successful parent?” One sister takes note of the subjects discussed by others at work and then shares specific information based on what her coworkers are interested in. When she learned that a woman at her job was planning to get married, she gave her an Awake! that discussed how to plan a wedding. This led to further Bible discussions.

      8. How can we use our literature to start conversations?

      8 Another way to start conversations is by reading our literature where others can see us. One brother opens The Watchtower or Awake! to an article with an intriguing title and quietly begins to read it. If he notices someone nearby looking at his magazine, he asks a question or makes a brief comment on the article. This often leads to a conversation and a witness. Simply leaving one of our publications where it is visible may arouse the curiosity of workmates or classmates and prompt them to inquire about it.